Fix your sensitive teeth in Croydon South at Elation Dental!
🦷 Sensitive Teeth
A simple guide to causes of sensitivty and ways to feel better!
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem. It often feels like a quick, sharp pain when you have something cold, hot, sweet, or acidic. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually manageable once you understand what’s behind it. If your symptoms are ongoing or getting worse, it’s important to speak with a dentist to rule out any underlying issues.
🌟 What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth usually happen when the protective layers of the tooth become thinner or when the gum line pulls back, exposing the softer part of the tooth underneath (called dentine). This part has tiny channels that lead to the nerve, making the tooth react more strongly to temperature and pressure.
Common causes include:
- Enamel wear — from acidic drinks, frequent snacking on citrus, or brushing too hard.
- Gum recession — often linked to gum disease or brushing aggressively.
- Tooth grinding (bruxism) — which can wear down enamel over time. We use a 3D scanner at Elation Dental to make a grinding splint easy and painless!
- Cracked or chipped teeth — which can expose the inner layers.
- Recent dental work — such as fillings or whitening, which may cause temporary sensitivity.
- Tooth decay or worn fillings — which can expose sensitive areas.
💡 What you can do at home
These steps often help reduce sensitivity within a few weeks:
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. These help block the tiny channels that lead to the nerve.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Hard brushing can make sensitivity worse.
- Use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash to strengthen enamel.
- Limit acidic foods and drinks like soft drinks, sports drinks, and citrus juices.
- Avoid brushing right after acidic foods. Wait at least 30 minutes to protect enamel.
- If you grind your teeth, talk to us at Elation Dental about a bruxing/grinding nightguard!
🏥 When to see Elation Dental about your sensitive teeth?
A dentist can help identify the exact cause and recommend treatments such as:
- Fluoride varnish to strengthen the tooth surface.
- Bonding or sealants to cover exposed areas.
- Gum treatments or grafting if gum recession is the cause.
- Repairing cracks or replacing worn fillings.
- Root canal treatment in severe cases where the nerve is affected.
These treatments target the source of the problem rather than just easing symptoms.
🛡️ Preventing sensitivity in the future
Good daily habits can help keep sensitivity from returning:
- Brush twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to keep gums healthy.
- Reduce acidic drinks and sugary snacks.
- Use a straw for acidic drinks to limit contact with teeth.
- Keep up with regular dental check‑ups.