Sensitive Teeth Birmingham
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Do You Have Sensitive Teeth?
Do you feel a shooting pain in your teeth when eating or drinking something hot? Does the thought of biting into an ice cream or a cold, hard apple make you wince? Sensitive teeth can be a burden for many people and can be caused by a variety of factors. It is always important to seek advice from a dental professional so that the source of the problem can be identified and treated. There are several causes of sensitivity:
- Temporary pain can be experienced after tooth whitening procedures and is treated with over the counter painkillers.
- Dental erosion, or the loss of tooth enamel, can also cause sensitivity. Enamel is the hard outer coating of a tooth that protects the sensitive dentine underneath. If enamel is worn away or eroded, this dentine is exposed which can lead to pain and sensitivity, which can be worsened with extreme temperatures.
- Erosion can be caused by your diet (frequent consumption of high sugar or high acid food or drink), tooth brushing habits (brushing too hard), tooth grinding, certain medical conditions and eating disorders.
Fortunately, this can be avoided by attending regular hygiene check-ups at the practice and maintaining a good daily hygiene routine. Brushing between the teeth, flossing and replacing your toothbrush every three months will also benefit your gum health.
Life Benefits
Being able to consume hot and cold drinks and food.
Pain-free mouth.
Reduced risk of further tooth wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sensitive Teeth
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth occur when the protective enamel layer wears down or when gums recede, exposing the underlying dentine. This dentine contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve of the tooth, allowing hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks to trigger discomfort. Common causes include enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth grinding, and certain dental procedures.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a more serious problem?
In some cases, sensitivity may indicate an underlying dental issue such as tooth decay, cracked teeth, worn fillings, or gum disease. While mild sensitivity can be managed, persistent or worsening discomfort should be assessed to rule out conditions that may require targeted treatment rather than home care alone.
How can sensitive teeth be treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of sensitivity. Options may include desensitising toothpaste, fluoride applications, protective dental coatings, or addressing enamel wear and gum recession. If sensitivity is linked to dental decay or damage, restorative treatments may be recommended to protect the tooth and reduce discomfort.
Can lifestyle habits make tooth sensitivity worse?
Yes, frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks, brushing too hard, using abrasive toothpaste, or grinding your teeth can increase sensitivity over time. Making small changes such as switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding aggressive brushing, and moderating acidic intake can help protect enamel and reduce symptoms.
When should I book an appointment for sensitive teeth?
If tooth sensitivity is persistent, worsening, or interfering with eating and drinking comfortably, it is important to arrange a dental appointment. Ongoing discomfort may indicate enamel wear, gum recession, or underlying decay that requires professional assessment and appropriate treatment.
You can book your appointment through our 24/7 online booking system at a time that suits you.