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Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Understand the common causes of tooth sensitivity and learn about effective treatments to help you enjoy your favourite foods without discomfort.
Dr. Nilesh Bhatt
Dr. Nilesh Bhatt
Principal Dentist & Implant Specialist
5 min read
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that affects many people and can significantly impact your quality of life. At Gartside Street Dental Lounge in Manchester, we understand how frustrating sensitivity can be and are committed to helping you identify the cause and find effective solutions. Our dental fillings service can address many causes of sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when the protective outer layer of your teeth, called enamel, becomes worn down or when your gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerve of your tooth, and when these tubules are exposed, hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can trigger pain.
One of the most common causes of sensitivity is aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush. This can wear away your enamel and cause gum recession over time. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique can help prevent this type of damage.
Gum disease can also lead to sensitivity by causing your gums to recede and expose the roots of your teeth. The roots don't have the same protective enamel covering as the crowns of your teeth, making them more sensitive to temperature changes and certain foods.
Acidic foods and beverages can erode your tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity. Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, and other acidic substances can gradually wear away your enamel and expose the sensitive dentin underneath.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can cause sensitivity by wearing down your enamel and potentially causing small cracks in your teeth. If you grind your teeth, especially at night, we may recommend a custom-made night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Dental procedures like fillings, crowns, or whitening treatments can cause temporary sensitivity. This usually resolves within a few days or weeks as your teeth adjust to the treatment. If sensitivity persists, it's important to let us know so we can address any underlying issues.
Treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on the underlying cause. We may recommend desensitising toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block the transmission of pain signals from your teeth to your nerves. For more severe cases, we may suggest treatments like bonding, crowns, or gum grafts.
Preventing sensitivity involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoiding habits that can damage your teeth. Regular dental check-ups allow us to identify and address potential causes of sensitivity before they become more serious problems.
At our Manchester practice, we're committed to helping you overcome tooth sensitivity and enjoy a comfortable, pain-free smile. Our team will work with you to identify the cause of your sensitivity and develop an effective treatment plan to resolve the issue.

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