If cold water, ice cream or a breath of cold air gives you a sharp, short pain, you may have sensitive teeth. Sensitivity happens when the softer layer under the enamel, called dentine, is exposed. Dentine has tiny channels that lead to the nerve.
Common causes
- Gum recession, which exposes the root surfaces
- Brushing too hard or with a hard toothbrush
- Enamel wear from acidic food and drinks, such as fizzy drinks, citrus and wine
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Tooth decay or a cracked tooth
- A broken or leaking filling
- Temporary sensitivity after whitening or a new filling
What you can do
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice daily. It can take a few weeks to work fully.
- After brushing, spit but don’t rinse, so the active ingredients stay on your teeth.
- Switch to a soft brush and use a gentle technique.
- Cut down on acidic drinks and wait 30 minutes after them before brushing.
Dental treatments
Depending on the cause, your dentist may:
- Apply a desensitising varnish or fluoride
- Bond a tooth-coloured filling over exposed roots
- Replace a worn or leaking filling
- Make a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Treat the nerve with a root canal if sensitivity is severe and lasting
When to see us
Sensitivity that lasts more than a few seconds, wakes you at night, or is in one tooth only may be a sign of decay or a crack. Book a check-up so the cause can be found. Call Dr H.B Mohamed’s practice in Lenasia on 011 852 7866.