Ouch, My Teeth Are Sensitive! Causes and Solutions
Dr Tristan Tinn
Founder & Clinical Director
Key Takeaways
- •Tooth sensitivity happens when the softer dentine layer beneath enamel becomes exposed.
- •Common causes include receding gums, enamel erosion, tooth decay, and brushing too hard.
- •Desensitising toothpaste (like Sensodyne) works, but takes 2-4 weeks of consistent use.
- •Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles make sensitivity worse.
- •See a dentist if sensitivity is severe, lasts more than a few weeks, or affects just one tooth.
- •Professional treatments include fluoride varnish, bonding, and gum grafts for severe cases.
That sharp zing when you bite into ice cream or sip hot coffee is not something you have to live with. Tooth sensitivity affects around 1 in 8 adults in the UK. Understanding the causes can help you find relief.
Why Teeth Become Sensitive
Your tooth enamel is like armour, protecting the softer dentine layer underneath. Dentine contains thousands of microscopic tubes that lead to the nerve. When dentine becomes exposed, these tubes allow hot, cold, sweet, or acidic triggers to reach the nerve, causing that familiar sharp pain.
Common Causes
- Receding gums: Exposes the root surface, which has no enamel protection
- Brushing too hard: Can wear away enamel and gums over time
- Acidic foods and drinks: Erode enamel (citrus, fizzy drinks, wine)
- Teeth grinding: Wears down enamel
- Tooth decay or cracked teeth: Allow access to the nerve
- Recent dental treatment: Temporary sensitivity after fillings or whitening is normal
- Gum disease: Causes gum recession and root exposure
Treatment Options
At Home
- Desensitising toothpaste: Products like Sensodyne contain ingredients that block pain signals. Use consistently for 2-4 weeks for best results
- Soft-bristled brush: Prevents further enamel and gum damage
- Gentle brushing technique: Don't scrub – use small, circular motions
- Limit acidic foods: Wait 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing
Professional Treatments
- Fluoride varnish: Applied to sensitive areas to strengthen enamel
- Bonding: Covering exposed root surfaces
- Gum grafts: For severe gum recession
- Night guard: If grinding is the cause
When to see a dentist: If sensitivity is severe, lasts more than a few weeks, or is localised to one tooth, get it checked. It could indicate a cavity, crack, or other problem that needs treatment.
Sensitivity After Dental Treatment
It is normal to experience temporary sensitivity after certain dental procedures. Sensitivity after a filling or teeth whitening usually settles within a few days to two weeks. If it persists beyond this, contact your dentist.
Desensitising Toothpaste Comparison
| Active Ingredient | How It Works | Time to Work | Found In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium nitrate | Calms the nerve inside the tooth | 2-4 weeks | Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive |
| Stannous fluoride | Blocks exposed dentine tubules | 1-2 weeks | Sensodyne Rapid Relief, Oral-B Sensitivity |
| Hydroxyapatite | Remineralises and seals enamel | 2-4 weeks | BioMin, Regenerate |
| Arginine + calcium carbonate | Physically blocks tubules | Immediate to 2 weeks | Colgate Pro-Relief |
Pro tip: For faster relief, rub a small amount of desensitising toothpaste directly onto the sensitive area with your finger before bed and leave it on overnight. This concentrated application can speed up results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitivity happens when the dentine layer beneath your enamel becomes exposed. This can be caused by receding gums, enamel erosion from acidic foods, tooth decay, cracked teeth, or even brushing too hard.
Does sensitive toothpaste really work?
Yes, when used consistently. It takes 2 to 4 weeks of twice-daily use to notice improvement. The key is not to give up too early. Switching back to a regular toothpaste will cause sensitivity to return.
Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?
Sudden sensitivity can signal a cracked tooth, new cavity, or a recent filling that needs adjusting. If sensitivity appears suddenly and affects one tooth, see your dentist promptly. It may also follow teeth whitening, which is usually temporary.
Can sensitive teeth be cured permanently?
It depends on the cause. Some causes like whitening sensitivity are temporary. Others like gum recession or enamel erosion require ongoing management. Professional treatments such as fluoride varnish or bonding can provide lasting relief.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
It can be. Sensitivity to sweet foods or lingering pain after hot or cold may indicate tooth decay. If sensitivity persists, a dental check-up will rule out cavities.
Should I use a soft or hard toothbrush?
Always soft. Hard or medium bristles wear away enamel and irritate gums. An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor is even better for preventing over-brushing.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
Yes, temporarily. Whitening products open the pores in enamel, which can trigger sensitivity for a few days to two weeks. Using desensitising toothpaste before and after whitening can minimise this.
When should I see a dentist about sensitivity?
See a dentist if sensitivity is severe, lasts more than a few weeks, is localised to one tooth, or comes with swelling or a visible hole. Early treatment is always simpler.
Related Articles
Sources
- • Oral Health Foundation – Sensitive teeth
- • NHS – Sensitive teeth guidance
Last reviewed on 14 April 2026 by Dr Tristan Tinn