Teeth · Perivale, Ealing
That sharp twinge from cold, hot or sweet food happens when the softer layer under the enamel is exposed. It’s common and usually manageable, but sensitivity that comes on suddenly or affects one tooth should be checked.
Written and clinically reviewed by Marisa Lennie, GDC 252605 · Last reviewed
What’s going on
Under the enamel is a softer layer called dentine. If enamel wears away, or gums shrink back, the dentine is exposed and heat, cold or sweetness can reach the nerve.
The result can be a quick, sharp pain or a longer ache. Finding the cause matters, because the same twinge can come from worn enamel, a receding gum, decay or a cracked tooth, and each is treated differently.
Source: Oral Health Foundation: Sensitive teeth (opens in a new tab), Oral Health Foundation: Dental erosion (opens in a new tab).
At home
Based on Oral Health Foundation: Sensitive teeth (opens in a new tab), Oral Health Foundation: Dental erosion (opens in a new tab).
At your appointment
Cold, sweet or biting? One tooth or many? The pattern often points straight to the cause.
Receding gums leave the root exposed. I check how far, and whether gum disease is involved.
Acid erosion and heavy brushing leave tell-tale wear. We’ll talk about what’s causing it and how to slow it.
Sensitivity in one tooth can mean decay or a crack, which needs a different treatment from general sensitivity.
How I can help
Sensitive Teeth FAQs
Something else on your mind? Email me or call 020 8997 0933.
Look for a toothpaste for sensitive teeth containing potassium nitrate, potassium citrate or stannous fluoride. Use it every day, because the effect wears off if you stop.
Sudden sensitivity, especially in one tooth, can be a sign of decay, a cracked tooth, gum problems or infection, so it’s worth having it checked.
Often, yes. A sensitive toothpaste helps many people. A dental professional can also apply a desensitising treatment, recommend a high-fluoride toothpaste or cover worn areas.
Whitening usually causes temporary sensitivity, which settles after treatment.
No. Keep brushing twice a day, but use a soft brush, gentle pressure and a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Marisa qualified through the Royal College of Surgeons of England, training clinically at King’s College Hospital, London, and is an Approved Education Supervisor for trainee hygienists & therapists. She assesses and treats sensitive teeth at Bilton Road Dental Practice in Perivale.
This page is general information about sensitive teeth. It isn’t a diagnosis. Sudden, severe or one-sided sensitivity should be examined.
Call the practice or send an email to book your appointment. No referral needed.
Bilton Road Dental Practice · 56 Bilton Rd, Perivale, Greenford, London, UB6 7DH
Sensitive teeth checks in Perivale (UB6), Ealing, for patients from Greenford, Alperton, Sudbury, Hanwell and Northolt.
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