Do your teeth feel extremely sensitive to cold water? Or have you experienced discomfort when eating something sweet or sour?
Tooth sensitivity can turn the simple pleasure of enjoying your favourite foods and drinks into an uncomfortable experience. It can affect anyone and often signals underlying dental concerns that need attention.
Let’s explore the common causes of tooth sensitivity, why it happens, and what you can do to protect your teeth and ease discomfort.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity starts when the hard outer layer of your teeth (enamel) gets thinner or your gums pull back. Then, the softer layer underneath, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin has tiny tubes that connect to the nerves inside your teeth, making them extra sensitive to temperature, certain chemicals, or pressure.
Think of it like having a phone without a case—your teeth lose their protective barrier, so they feel every little bump or scratch more intensely!
How do you know if you have sensitive teeth?
If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll likely feel sharp pain or discomfort during everyday activities like:
- Sipping hot coffee or biting into an ice cream cone
- Eating tangy or super-sweet snacks
- Chewing foods that require extra pressure
How to treat tooth sensitivity
Depending on the root cause of your condition, tooth sensitivity treatment options can include:
- Desensitising toothpaste
- Custom mouthguards
- Fluoride treatments
- Fillings or crowns
- Gum grafting
- Dental bonding
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Finding out what’s causing it is the first step in fixing it. These discomforts may signal underlying issues with your enamel or gums, so it’s vital to explore the root causes. Here’s a list of the most common reasons for sensitive teeth:
1. Worn Tooth Enamel
Your tooth enamel is tough, but it isn’t invincible. Over time, acidic foods, aggressive brushing, or even grinding your teeth can wear them down and leave them vulnerable.
How to prevent it:
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks like citrus, soda, and wine.
- Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Switch to a toothpaste designed for enamel protection.
2. Gum Recession
When gums recede, they expose the sensitive roots of your teeth, which don’t have protective enamel. This can be caused by age, overbrushing, or gum disease.
How to protect your gums:
- Brush gently using circular motions.
- Visit your dentist regularly to monitor gum health.
- Consider treatments like gum grafting if needed.
3. Cavities and Tooth Decay
Cavities are a leading cause of tooth sensitivity, as they can expose the soft inner layers of your teeth, making them more sensitive to temperature changes.
What to do:
- Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- See your dentist regularly for cleanings and early detection of cavities.
4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding your teeth, often while you sleep, can wear down enamel and create micro-cracks that lead to sensitivity. When a tooth cracks, the nerves inside can get irritated when chewing. The crack might also collect bacteria, causing inflammation and more pain.
Bruxism is commonly triggered by stress or dental misalignment. Here’s how to address it:
- Visit a dentist to check for misalignment or bite issues.
- Wear a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth from grinding at night.
- Manage stress & support your mental health through self-care practices and relaxation techniques (like yoga or exercise).
5. Overuse of Mouthwash
Mouthwash can leave your breath feeling fresh, but using it too often can have drawbacks. Some formulas contain acids that, while effective at fighting bacteria, can weaken enamel and worsen tooth sensitivity over time. This is especially concerning for those already dealing with sensitive teeth.
How to minimise sensitivity:
- Limit rinsing to once or twice a day to avoid overexposure to harsh ingredients.
- Choose neutral fluoride rinses or those designed to reduce sensitivity.
- Consult your dentist to learn which ingredients to avoid.
6. Gum Disease
Gum disease causes inflammation and leads to gum recession. If untreated, it can progress to severe stages, potentially causing tooth loss.
Steps to protect your gums:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup.
- Visit your dentist for professional cleanings as needed.
7. Recent Dental Procedures
Teeth cleanings, root planing, tooth restorations, and replacement crowns can cause some short-term tooth sensitivity. This typically subsides within a few weeks.
How to manage it:
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
- Avoid hot or cold foods until the sensitivity fades.
- Contact your dentist if sensitivity persists.
Can You Whiten Sensitive Teeth Safely?
Is it safe to whiten sensitive teeth?
Yes, sensitive teeth can usually be whitened if you select the right method in consultation with your dentist and keep track of any changes in sensitivity. Some whitening methods might not be the best choice, as stronger bleaching agents can increase sensitivity. Here are a few things to consider:
- Trust the Pros: Professional teeth whitening services, like those offered at SmileBar, use milder formulas that are kinder to sensitive teeth. Dentists and professionals use custom techniques and products to minimise irritation while delivering effective results.
- Use the Right Products: Look for whitening products specifically labelled for sensitive teeth. These often contain lower levels of peroxide or added ingredients like potassium nitrate to soothe and protect your teeth.
- Take Breaks: Space out treatment sessions to avoid irritation.
- Prep with Desensitising Toothpaste: Use it before and after whitening. Ingredients like fluoride and potassium nitrate help strengthen enamel and calm nerve endings.
Reclaim Your Smile
Sensitive teeth don’t have to ruin life’s little pleasures. With the right care, you can restore comfort and confidence.
For a brighter, healthier smile, visit SmileBar for safe and effective teeth whitening. Our expert in-chair services deliver even results with controlled application, keeping your teeth healthy and minimising sensitivity for a confident, radiant smile.
We offer professional teeth whitening in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and many other locations across Australia, so book your appointment today and start your journey to a more dazzling smile.
