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How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity and Prevent Discomfort

February 4, 2025 by
Lewis Calvert

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Whether it's a mild twinge or sharp pain, tooth sensitivity can interfere with your daily life and affect your overall well-being. Understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity and how to manage and prevent it is key to maintaining healthy, pain-free teeth.

At Dorking Dental Centre, we recognise the challenges of tooth sensitivity and offer expert guidance on how to manage discomfort and prevent future issues. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of tooth sensitivity, effective treatments, and preventive measures you can take to protect your teeth.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin is the part of your tooth that contains microscopic tubes leading to the nerves inside the tooth. When this protective enamel layer wears down, these tubes are exposed to external triggers, such as temperature changes or certain foods, causing pain and discomfort.

Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:

  1. Enamel Erosion: Over time, tooth enamel can wear away due to factors like poor oral hygiene, acidic foods and drinks, or aggressive brushing.
  2. Gum Recession: When the gums recede, the root surface of the tooth becomes exposed, which can lead to sensitivity.
  3. Tooth Grinding: Habitual grinding of teeth (bruxism) can wear down enamel and lead to increased sensitivity.
  4. Dental Treatments: Procedures like teeth whitening or fillings may cause temporary sensitivity in some individuals.
  5. Cavities and Cracks: Decay or fractures in the teeth can expose the nerves, leading to heightened sensitivity.

By identifying the root cause of your tooth sensitivity, you can take the appropriate steps to manage and treat it effectively.

How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

  1. Use a Sensitivity Toothpaste

One of the most common and effective ways to manage tooth sensitivity is by switching to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain special compounds that help block the pathways leading to the nerves of your teeth. Using sensitive toothpaste regularly can help reduce discomfort over time.

Some of the most popular sensitivity toothpastes include ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which are known to help alleviate pain and protect the teeth.

  1. Brush Gently

Aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down tooth enamel and lead to gum recession, both of which can exacerbate sensitivity. It’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard while brushing, as this can also cause damage to your gums and enamel.

  1. Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks

Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, and vinegar, can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity. If you do consume acidic foods, try to rinse your mouth with water afterwards to neutralise the acids. You can also use a straw when drinking acidic beverages to minimise contact with your teeth.

  1. Protect Your Teeth from Grinding

If you grind your teeth, especially at night, this can wear down the enamel and lead to sensitivity. A night guard can help protect your teeth and prevent further damage. Your dentist can provide a custom-fit night guard to ensure maximum protection and comfort.

  1. Use Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against decay. Using fluoride mouth rinses or having professional fluoride treatments from your dentist can help reduce sensitivity by reinforcing enamel. Fluoride treatments can be particularly beneficial if your enamel is beginning to wear thin due to age or habits like brushing too hard.

  1. Consider Dental Bonding or Sealants

In cases of severe sensitivity, dental bonding or sealants may be recommended by your dentist. These treatments involve applying a protective coating to the exposed dentin, which helps shield it from external stimuli. Bonding can also help cover exposed roots and provide relief from sensitivity.

  1. Address Cavities and Cracks Promptly

If cavities or cracks are causing your sensitivity, it's important to seek dental treatment promptly. Left untreated, decay can lead to more serious issues, such as infections or abscesses. Your dentist can clean out the cavity and restore the tooth with a filling or crown to protect it from further damage.

  1. Manage Gum Recession

If gum recession is contributing to your tooth sensitivity, there are various treatments available. Your dentist may recommend a gum graft to cover exposed tooth roots and prevent further gum loss. Additionally, practising good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding aggressive brushing can help prevent further gum recession.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

While managing sensitivity is essential, preventing it from occurring in the first place is even better. Here are some preventive measures you can take to avoid tooth sensitivity:

  1. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Regular brushing helps remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can lead to sensitivity. Make sure to use a fluoride toothpaste to help protect your enamel.

  1. Avoid Overuse of Whitening Products

While teeth whitening treatments can help improve the appearance of your smile, overuse of these products can lead to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. If you’re using a whitening toothpaste or undergoing professional whitening treatments, it’s essential to follow the recommended guidelines and consult your dentist to ensure that the treatment is safe for your teeth.

  1. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks

As mentioned earlier, acidic foods and beverages can erode your tooth enamel over time. To prevent sensitivity, try to limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks. When you do indulge, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards to help neutralise acids.

  1. Wear a Mouthguard During Sports

If you participate in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury and prevent chips or cracks that could lead to sensitivity. Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist offer the best fit and protection.

  1. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dental checkups are crucial for maintaining your oral health and identifying potential issues before they become more serious. Your dentist can assess your teeth and gums for signs of sensitivity and recommend early interventions to prevent discomfort. Regular cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar, which can contribute to tooth sensitivity.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some cases of tooth sensitivity can be managed with over-the-counter products and home remedies, it’s important to consult with a dentist if the discomfort persists or worsens. At Dorking Dental Centre, we offer expert dental care to address tooth sensitivity and its underlying causes. Our team can assess your dental health and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific needs.

If you experience severe pain, sudden sensitivity, or signs of infection, it’s crucial to seek professional dental care immediately. Prompt attention can prevent further complications and help restore your comfort.

Conclusion

Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but with the right management and preventive measures, you can minimise discomfort and protect your teeth from further damage. By using sensitive toothpaste, brushing gently, and avoiding acidic foods, you can reduce your sensitivity and maintain your oral health. For more severe cases, treatments like fluoride applications, bonding, or professional dental care may be necessary.

At Dorking Dental Centre, we are committed to helping you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile. If you're struggling with tooth sensitivity or need advice on how to manage it, our team is here to help. Book an appointment with us today to discuss your concerns and discover the best solutions for your dental health.