Get help with sensitive teeth
Are your teeth sensitive to hot, cold or sweet ?
What causes sensitive teeth?
Teeth may be sensitive for a number of different reasons. Sensitive teeth are often because of dentine exposure. Dentine is the layer of tooth structure under the outer enamel layer. It has channels that go to the inner nerve part of the tooth.
As your local dentist we’re here to help. So if you have sensitive teeth, book your appointment with our experienced dentist.
Factors that can contribute to sensitive teeth …
- Tooth decay : This is a common cause of pain on hot, cold or sweet. The tooth can often be repaired by placing a filling so that the sensitivity settles.
- Tooth wear : When the tooth is damaged because the enamel or dentine surface is worn away.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles will lead to gum recession and/or tooth wear.
- Acidic foods and drinks : These can cause erosion and therefore damage to the tooth surface.
- Teeth grinding : this can lead to the tooth surface wearing away.
- Gum disease : when the gums pull away from the teeth or when the gums shrink because of recession.
- A cracked tooth or filling : A crack can run from the outer surface of the tooth towards the root and the inner part of the tooth.
- Age : Gums can naturally recede over time.
- Teeth whitening : Some patients have sensitivity for a short time after teeth whitening.
Tips to help prevent sensitivity …
- Visit our dentist to establish the cause of your sensitivity, so it is treated appropriately,
- Brush your teeth twice a day effectively using the correct toothbrush. Oral B is recommended.
- Clean in between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes to help prevent gum disease.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks.
- Avoid stress because this can lead to a teeth grinding habit.
- If sensitivity is due to exposed dentine, use a sensitive toothpaste so it may help. We let you know if this is suitable for you.
- Our dentist may apply de-sensitising paste on your teeth over a number of visits
- You may require a white filling to cover the exposed dentine. This is often a simple procedure.
Our modern dental clinic has excellent transport links. Located just off the A40 Western Avenue, in Perivale Greenford Ealing, with free street parking. We welcome residents, workers and students in the West London and Middlesex areas including Hanwell, Northolt, Wembley, Southall, Acton, Harrow, Chiswick, Hounslow, Hillingdon, and beyond. Book your new patient dentist appointment so we can help you with your sensitive teeth.
