Have You Got Sensitive Teeth? Here’s What You Can Do About It!

Have you ever eaten ice cream or sipped a hot coffee and felt a sharp shooting pain through your teeth? That’s tooth sensitivity, and it’s one of those things that seems small until it happens—and then it’s all you can think about!

At Sarum Dental in Salisbury, we often see patients with sensitive teeth. The good news is that you don’t have to put up with it. Keep reading to learn more!

Firstly, what is tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth becomes worn or your gums recede, exposing the dentine underneath. Dentine has microscopic tubules that lead to the nerve endings inside the tooth, which means hot and cold (or even sweet and acidic) foods or beverages can suddenly create a lightning shot of pain in your mouth!

Teeth sensitivity can feel like:

• A quick twinge of pain whilst brushing
• Lingering pain after eating or drinking
• A dull aching that doesn’t go away

However it feels for you, it’s not something you have to live with.

So, what causes tooth sensitivity?

Many things can cause sensitivity – some you might expect and others you won’t!

• Brushing too hard
• Using a hard-bristled brush
• Grinding your teeth
• Consuming acidic foods and fizzy drinks
• Receding gums
• Tooth decay
• Cracked teeth
• Worn fillings

Here’s what you can do to help your tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is treatable depending on what’s causing it:

1. Your Sarum dentist in Salisbury might suggest a desensitising toothpaste formulated to block the tubules that cause pain. This treatment can take a few weeks before you feel the full effect, but it has worked for many of our patients.
2. Your dentist might also suggest swapping your toothbrush for a softer version to protect your enamel and gums. We can also show you the correct way to brush and the right pressure level so you’re not making the situation worse.
3. At Sarum Dental, Wiltshire, we can also apply fluoride varnish to strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity.
4. If your sensitivity is caused by a crack, cavity or worn-down filling, we will spot this during your routine check-up and remedy the problem immediately, whether done via a new filling, composite bonding or gum treatment.
5. If you’re grinding your teeth at night, our Salisbury dental practice offers custom-made night guards to protect your teeth and reduce enamel wear.