Dealing With Sensitive Teeth – Q&A

15 March 2016

Questions answered by your local Surbiton dentist.

Having sensitive teeth can be mildly annoying ranging through to extremely painful. Here at Confidental Clinic, we see quite a number of patients reporting the problem, and we understand that it can be quite debilitating for some.

One of the best things you can do, and what we advise all our Surbiton dental patients to do, is to find out as much as you can, so you can either prevent it or minimise the effects.

It is important to understand sensitive teeth because it might be a sign of a more serious condition, letting you know you need to visit your local dentist as soon as possible. We will happily give you advice and information when you come to see us, but in the meantime, we thought this handy Q&A blog would be a great start:

Are Some People Particularly Prone To Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth are common, so-much-so it would seem as though everyone and anyone can suffer from them. This is true, but some people are slightly more prone. A person aged between 20-40 is generally more likely to have sensitive teeth and a person who might have any condition that enhances their chance of getting plaque could be more likely to suffer from it as well.

Why Do We Get Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth tend to be caused for a variety of reasons. The outer part of the tooth has a layer of enamel protecting the teeth, and when that enamel has been worn away the tooth can be sensitive because the dentine underneath is exposed. Often, this happens on the gum line where the tooth meets the gum because the enamel layer isn’t as thick.

Common reasons a person gets sensitive teeth are:

• Brushing too vigorously can cause enamel to wear away
• Consuming too much acidic food or drink can wear away tooth enamel
• Gum recession may expose the tooth roots
• Gum disease can cause pockets to form around the gums, making dental hygiene hard to maintain
• Tooth grinding causes teeth enamel to wear down
• Broken or cracked teeth expose the tooth root to hot and cold temperatures
• Teeth whitening may cause tooth sensitivity for a short period of time after use

When Am I Most Likely To Suffer From The Effects Of Sensitive Teeth?

You could feel twinges or sharp pain when you consume cold drinks or food, when cold air blows on your teeth, and you may even suffer from hot drinks and food as well. Some people may also find that particularly sweet or acidic food or drink affects them as well.

How Can Sensitive Teeth Be Treated?

The best thing you can do is try to prevent sensitive teeth by:

• Visiting your Surbiton dentist regularly to ensure any underlying dental conditions aren’t causing the sensitivity problems and to help you maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine
• Brushing teeth twice a day in the right way, with the right toothbrush and the right toothpaste
• Avoiding acidic foods as much as possible

If you already have sensitive teeth, consider using a toothpaste designed to help people with sensitive teeth. When you pop in to see us at Confidental we will be more than happy to recommend brands to you, check there’s nothing else going on and recommend a treatment plan to you. Just give us a call on 02083991291 and one of our friendly reception staff will make you an appointment.