What is tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp pain that happens when something contacts a tooth after the protective outer layers have worn away or been lost. The Australian Dental Association explains that when enamel or gum tissue is lost, the inside tooth structure — dentine — can be exposed, and nerves in the dentine can feel pain (teeth.org.au).
Triggers often include hot or cold foods and drinks, cool air, or touch from a toothbrush. The pain usually settles once the trigger is removed. If pain continues after the stimulus is gone, the ADA notes that this may be a sign of tooth decay, and it is important to see a dentist to find the cause (teeth.org.au).
You can have one sensitive tooth or several. Sensitivity is a common reason people book a check-up and clean at AMK Dental Clinic in Mortlake. Only an examination can tell what is happening in your mouth.
What commonly causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth commonly occur when acid, gum recession, grinding, decay or a broken filling leave dentine exposed or irritated. The ADA lists tooth erosion from acidic foods and drinks, gums shrinking away from the teeth, teeth grinding or clenching at night, and conditions that leave enamel weaker as developing teeth form among common causes (teeth.org.au).
Dental erosion is wear of enamel caused by acid, most often from food or drinks, and it is different from tooth decay caused by bacteria (healthdirect). Healthdirect notes that erosion can leave teeth sensitive to heat and cold. Acidic soft drinks (including sugar-free), fruit juices, sports and energy drinks, citrus fruit and vinegar are common external sources; frequent sipping keeps acid on the teeth for longer (healthdirect).
Other causes that often need a dentist’s eye include:
- Tooth decay, or a filling that is breaking down
- Gum recession that exposes root surfaces (related gum concerns are covered in our bleeding gums guide)
- Grinding or clenching that wears enamel
- Temporary sensitivity after dental treatment (the ADA says this may last a few days or up to about two weeks)
Sensitivity after treatment that continues or turns into ongoing pain should be checked (teeth.org.au).
When should I see a dentist about sensitivity?
You should see a dentist about sensitivity if a tooth reacts to cold, hot or sweet foods or drinks, if pain lasts after the trigger stops, or if sensitivity is new, worsening or stopping you from cleaning your teeth. The ADA advises seeing a dentist to rule out decay, erosion or other conditions (teeth.org.au).
Book sooner rather than later if you also notice:
- Pain that continues after hot, cold or sweet foods are finished
- Sensitivity that is getting worse or spreading to more teeth
- A chipped tooth, a rough or broken filling, or a dark spot
- Gums that look as if they are pulling back from the teeth
- Sensitivity that began or stayed after recent dental work
Healthdirect advises seeing a dental practitioner if you are concerned about erosion or have signs such as sensitivity to heat and cold (healthdirect). Waiting can allow decay or erosion to progress; early assessment helps your dentist discuss options before symptoms worsen.
What can I try at home while I wait for an appointment?
While you wait for an appointment, keep brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily, limit acidic drinks, and consider a desensitising toothpaste — knowing it may help some people and will not fix decay. The ADA describes desensitising toothpastes as products that may calm the nerve response or form a barrier over the sensitive area, and states clearly that they will not help if tooth decay is the cause (teeth.org.au).
Helpful steps at home include:
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, without pressing hard
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss or another interdental aid
- Limit sugary and acidic drinks; prefer tap water rather than sipping lemon water through the day
- After acidic drinks or sugary snacks, wait at least 60 minutes before brushing, as the ADA advises, because brushing too soon can add to tooth wear (teeth.org.au)
- Healthdirect also suggests rinsing with water after acid exposure and using a straw for acidic drinks to limit contact with the teeth (healthdirect)
- Use a desensitising toothpaste as directed on the packet if you choose to try one
Home care supports comfort for some people. It is not a substitute for an examination, and it does not treat decay or a broken filling. See a dentist if sensitivity persists or if pain continues after the trigger is removed (teeth.org.au).
How can AMK help find the cause?
At AMK Dental Clinic, finding the cause of sensitivity starts with questions about your symptoms, diet and cleaning habits, then an examination of your teeth and gums. Your dentist may look for enamel wear, gum recession, decay, grinding wear and fillings that are breaking down, and may recommend X-rays when they are clinically needed. Care for sensitivity sits within general dentistry and routine check-ups and cleans.
If treatment is recommended — for example repairing decay or a failing filling — you receive an itemised written estimate before anything goes ahead. Your dentist will discuss options, risks and costs with you so you can decide what suits you. Results vary between people.
This page is general information only. It is not a personal diagnosis or treatment plan. Your dentist will discuss what is suitable for you.
Booking a check-up in Mortlake
AMK Dental Clinic is at Shop 3, 46 Tennyson Road, Mortlake NSW 2137. We serve patients from Mortlake and nearby suburbs including Breakfast Point, Cabarita, Concord, Rhodes and North Strathfield.
If sensitive teeth are worrying you, book online or call (02) 9739 6525. See our opening hours on the Contact page. When you are ready, book a check-up at a time that suits you.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice about your own situation. Please speak with a dentist about your needs.
Common questions
Why do my teeth hurt with cold or hot drinks?
A short, sharp response to hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks is a common way tooth sensitivity shows up. The Australian Dental Association explains that this often happens when enamel or gum tissue is lost and the inner layer, dentine, is exposed. Desensitising toothpaste may help some people, but it will not fix decay. Book a check-up at AMK Dental Clinic so the cause can be examined.
Does sensitive toothpaste fix the problem?
Desensitising toothpastes are made to reduce sensitivity for some people, either by calming the nerve response or by forming a barrier over the sensitive area. The Australian Dental Association says these toothpastes will not help if tooth decay is causing the sensitivity. Use them as directed on the packet while you wait for an appointment, and see a dentist if sensitivity continues.
When should I book for sensitive teeth?
Book a dentist if a tooth is sensitive to cold, hot or sweet foods or drinks, if the pain continues after the trigger is gone, or if sensitivity lasts or worsens. The ADA notes that ongoing pain after the stimulus is removed may be a sign of decay. At AMK Dental Clinic in Mortlake you can book online or call (02) 9739 6525.