Does the thought of biting into an ice-cream make you wince? Do you avoid eating hot or cold foods? Have you found yourself only eating on one side of your mouth? Chances are, you have sensitive teeth.
But how do you know if you have sensitive teeth or if it’s something more serious?
You may have sensitive teeth if you experience a short, sharp pain in one or more teeth when you eat or drink something hot or cold. Pain from tooth decay tends to be more of a constant, dull ache.
Related: Why do my teeth hurt? 10 reasons why
8 of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity
1. Worn tooth enamel
This is often caused by using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing forcefully.
2. Tooth erosion
Eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks can result in damage to the protective enamel on the teeth.
3. Tooth decay or infection
Bacteria and acid can cause a cavity to form in the tooth enamel. In more serious cases, an abscess can form as the result of a bacterial infection.
4. Tooth grinding
Those suffering from this condition may not even know it, as it often happens at night. Symptoms include jaw pain and headaches, with worn down, sensitive teeth often resulting.
5. Gum recession
One of the leading causes of tooth sensitivity; this occurs when the sensitive portion of the tooth below the gum margin is exposed.
6. Tooth decay
Worn-down fillings or crowns can leave the sensitive part of the tooth (dentine) exposed. If this is the case, you’ll often only feel sensitivity in one tooth or region of the mouth.
7. Post dental treatment
It’s normal to feel tooth sensitivity for a day or two following dental work.
8. Tooth whitening (bleaching)
Sensitivity can occur after a tooth whitening procedure, but this will generally settle once the bleaching has stopped.
Related: 7 ways to overcome a fear of the dentist
What are the treatments for sensitive teeth?
If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth, book an appointment with a dentist who will help work out the cause and the correct treatment plan.
Depending on the cause, your dentist is likely to recommend any of the following:
A thorough clean and scale
If plaque is present, your teeth will need a good clean. Fluoride treatments will often follow to help prevent further tooth decay and rebuild tooth enamel.
A filling
If decay is present, you may need a filling. Depending on the extent of the damage, a root canal or other restorative procedure may be required, which is why early intervention is key.
Desensitising toothpaste
There are toothpastes specially formulated to reduce discomfort and pain from tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can recommend one that would be most suitable for you.
Avoiding ‘triggers’
Your dentist might recommend that you avoid certain foods, such as hot, cold, sweet or acidic food and drinks, to give your teeth time to respond to treatment and become less sensitive.
Related: What to expect from my first dentist appointment
Ready to book an appointment with a dentist?
Start by finding a No Gap dental provider to get 100% back on preventative dental check-ups and agreed rates on many common dental treatments.^
Alternatively, search for a dentist near you through nib's First Choice Network. This is a community of health providers who’ve agreed to provide nib members with quality healthcare. We recommend you and your family visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and more regularly if you have a concern.
At nib, we offer a range of Extras covers that include benefits for dental care. If you’re already an nib member, you can check your current policy using member account. Alternatively, you can get a quote online in just minutes.
The information contained in this article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalised medical advice, always consult your qualified healthcare professional.
^Payment by nib of dental benefits is subject to serving relevant waiting periods, annual limits and service limits. Check your cover by visiting your member account or call 13 16 42. The dental check-up covers an examination or consultation (011 to 015), diagnostics (022, 037) scale and clean (114, 115) or removal of plaque (111), fluoride treatment (121) as deemed necessary and appropriate in the clinical opinion of the dentist (dentures not included). The services provided will be deducted from your annual limits and/or service limits. The No Gap offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or government scheme, nor substitutable or redeemable for cash and is only available with dentists who have a No Gap First Choice network provider agreement with nib.
