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Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive Teeth

Sharp pain when eating or drinking hot, cold or sweet things can signal worn enamel, gum recession, or a cavity. We'll identify the cause and the fix.

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01 — Why it matters
Sensitivity is usually a sign of a fixable cause.

When enamel wears away or gums recede, the softer dentine underneath becomes exposed. This contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve, which is why hot, cold or sweet foods can trigger a sharp, sudden pain.

Sensitivity can be caused by something as simple as over-brushing or a very acidic diet, but it can also indicate decay, a cracked tooth or an older filling leaking. Getting it checked means we can treat the cause before it becomes painful.

02 — Symptoms

Obvious. And often painful.

The signs vary, but most people notice one or more of these:

  1. 01Sharp, brief pain with cold drinks or food
  2. 02Discomfort brushing certain teeth
  3. 03Pain that fades quickly once the trigger is removed
  4. 04Sensitivity to sweet foods
03 — Causes

Where it comes from.

The most common culprits:

Worn enamel
From acidic foods or brushing too hard.
Gum recession
Exposing the tooth root near the gum line.
Cavity or cracked filling
Letting stimuli reach the inner tooth.
Teeth grinding
Wearing down enamel over time.
04 — When to see a dentist

Don't wait it out.

Speak to your our practice dentist if you're experiencing any of the following — book an appointment as soon as you can:

  • Sensitivity that's getting worse over weeks
  • Pain lingering long after the trigger
  • Sensitivity in just one specific tooth
  • Visible gum recession
05 — What to do about the pain

In discomfort right now?

Switching to a sensitivity toothpaste can help mild cases, but persistent or worsening sensitivity is worth having checked.

06 — What's next

A plan, not a quick fix.

Depending on the cause, treatment might be as simple as a fluoride treatment, or could involve a filling or gum care.

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