Sensitive Teeth

Do your teeth react to hot & or cold foods or drinks?

Do you have sensitive teeth? Does hot or cold food and drink make you cringe?

We can help you beat sensitivity with Sensodyne Rapid Relief.

Excessive brushing, gum disease and acidic food and drinks can cause your teeth to become sensitive. Using Sensodyne Rapid Relief can ease the pain and let you enjoy everyday things.

We also stock a variety of GC Tooth Mousse’s that can help strengthen and protect your teeth. GC Tooth Mousse can be helpful if:

  • Tooth decay or teeth decay
  • Sensitive teeth
  • You have erosions or wear
  • If you suffer from a dry mouth
  • You have an acidic oral environment
  • And a number of other benefits

If you have sensitive teeth feel free to discuss this issue with any of our dentists. We are more than happy to help guide you through the best solutions to manage and or fix the issue.

Sensitive Teeth Treatments & Solutions for Adelaide Patients

You can contact the dental clinic on 08 8280 9611 or if you just require information you can email us at: pds@paralowiedentalservice.net.au

To learn more about our dental clinic please view ours about us page. To view our dental services offered, please visit our services page, or to view our Google reviews please visit the link.

What causes sensitive teeth to hurt?

That sharp shock, jolt, or even minor twinge of pain you feel may be caused by these common triggers below:

  • Cold foods or drinks
  • Breathing in cold air
  • Hot foods or drinks
  • Sugary foods
  • Sour foods
  • Brushing your teeth

Are sensitive teeth common?

Yes. As many as 2 in 3 people may experience dentine hypersensitivity/tooth sensitivity.

Can overbrushing cause sensitive teeth?

Yes, brushing too hard or too frequently can contribute to gum recession and/or enamel wear, which, over time, can expose the inner layer of your tooth, known as dentine, and can lead to sensitive teeth. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Are sensitive teeth a sign of a more serious dental problem?

There are many different causes of tooth pain other than tooth sensitivity. For example, a cracked tooth or a cavity (tooth decay). If you are feeling any tooth pain or discomfort, the best thing you can do is visit your dentist and seek professional advice.

Common Questions Asked About Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying dentin of a tooth becomes exposed due to enamel erosion or gum recession. This exposure allows external stimuli, such as hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, to reach the nerves inside the tooth, causing discomfort. Below are some common causes of tooth sensitivity:

  • Enamel Erosion: Over time, the protective outer layer of your teeth can wear down due to frequent exposure to acidic foods, carbonated drinks, or excessive teeth whitening treatments. Once the enamel is worn, the sensitive dentin underneath becomes exposed.
  • Gum Recession: Receding gums, often caused by gum disease or aggressive brushing, expose the tooth roots, which lack enamel protection and are more sensitive to external factors.
  • Tooth Decay and Cavities: Untreated cavities can lead to holes in the tooth structure, making it easier for external irritants to reach the nerves.
  • Cracked or Chipped Teeth: A damaged tooth can expose the inner layers, causing sensitivity, particularly when consuming hot or cold foods.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth at night can wear down enamel over time, making your teeth more susceptible to sensitivity.
  • Recent Dental Procedures: Treatments such as teeth whitening, fillings, or crowns may cause temporary sensitivity, which typically resolves after a few weeks.

Understanding the cause of your tooth sensitivity is essential in finding the right treatment and making lifestyle changes to prevent further discomfort.

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, there are several preventive steps you can take to reduce discomfort and protect your enamel:

  • Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Hard-bristled brushes can wear down enamel and contribute to gum recession. A soft-bristled brush is gentler on your teeth and gums.
  • Switch to a Desensitising Toothpaste: Toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, such as Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive, contains ingredients that block nerve signals to reduce pain over time.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly helps protect your teeth from decay and gum disease, both of which can contribute to sensitivity.
  • Avoid Acidic and Sugary Foods: Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, soda, and sweets can weaken enamel and increase sensitivity. If you do consume these foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
  • Use a Fluoride Mouthwash: Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity. Incorporating a fluoride rinse into your daily routine can help protect your teeth.
  • Wear a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth: If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), wearing a custom nightguard can prevent further enamel wear and reduce sensitivity.
  • Avoid Overbrushing: Brushing too hard can strip away enamel and push gums back. Use gentle, circular motions when brushing to protect your teeth and gums.

By following these preventive measures, you can reduce sensitivity and maintain strong, healthy teeth.

Your daily habits and diet play a significant role in managing tooth sensitivity. Small adjustments can help minimize discomfort and protect your enamel:

  • Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in your mouth, preventing further enamel erosion.
  • Use a Straw for Acidic Drinks: When drinking soda, juice, or other acidic beverages, using a straw minimizes direct contact with your teeth.
  • Limit Extreme Temperature Foods: If you have sensitive teeth, try to avoid very hot or very cold foods, as they can trigger discomfort.
  • Include Enamel-Strengthening Foods: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt contain calcium and phosphates that help remineralize enamel.
  • Reduce Sugar Intake: Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, leading to acid production that weakens enamel and increases sensitivity.
  • Wait Before Brushing After Eating: Brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods can cause further enamel erosion. Wait at least 30 minutes to allow your saliva to neutralise acids before brushing.

Making these simple lifestyle changes can help protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity over time.

Tooth sensitivity is a common issue, but if it persists or worsens, it may indicate an underlying dental problem that requires professional attention. You should visit a dentist if:

  • Your sensitivity lasts for more than a few weeks despite using desensitising toothpaste and making lifestyle changes.
  • You experience sharp, intense pain when eating or drinking, as this may be a sign of decay, cracks, or gum disease.
  • You notice receding gums, swelling, or bleeding, which could indicate gum disease requiring treatment.
  • Your teeth have visible cracks, chips, or signs of enamel wear, which may need dental intervention to prevent further damage.
  • You have recently had dental work done, and the sensitivity does not subside within a reasonable timeframe.

A dentist can assess the cause of your sensitivity and recommend treatments such as fluoride applications, dental sealants, or gum grafting if necessary. Seeking professional care early can prevent further complications and help restore your oral comfort.

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Make An Appointment

If you would like to book an appointment with one of our dentists, please give our clinic a call today