Sensitive Tooth? Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Sensitivity
If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain when eating ice cream or drinking a hot coffee, you’re not alone. A sensitive tooth is something many people experience at some point. For some, it’s occasional discomfort. For others, it’s a daily issue that affects their quality of life.
At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery in Leicester, we regularly help patients manage tooth sensitivity and provide personalised solutions that work. In this blog, we’ll cover the common causes, signs, and what kind of tooth sensitivity treatment is available.
Whether you’re concerned about a tooth sensitive to cold, hot drinks, or brushing, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
What is tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, sometimes called dentin hypersensitivity, is pain or discomfort in the teeth when exposed to certain triggers—usually hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Some people also feel discomfort while brushing or flossing.
This happens when the inner layer of your tooth (called dentin) becomes exposed. Dentin has tiny tubules that connect to the nerve inside your tooth. When exposed, those nerves can be triggered easily.
According to Bupa Dental Care, up to half of the population may experience sensitive teeth at some point.
Common causes of a sensitive tooth
To understand what’s causing your tooth sensitivity, it helps to know some of the most common triggers:
- Worn enamel - Your enamel protects the inner layers of your teeth. Overbrushing, using a hard toothbrush, or acidic foods can wear it down.
- Receding gums - When gums recede, the sensitive tooth roots are left exposed. This is often a sign of gum disease.
- Tooth grinding - Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel, leaving your teeth more sensitive.
- Tooth decay - Cavities or cracks can allow bacteria to reach the dentin, causing pain and temperature sensitivity.
- Recent dental work - If you’ve recently had a filling, crown, or scale and polish, a tooth sensitive to cold or hot food might just be reacting temporarily.
You can read more about common causes on Colgate’s guide to tooth sensitivity and from Healthline.
When to see a dentist for tooth sensitivity
If the sensitivity lasts more than a few days, is getting worse, or you feel pain when biting or chewing, it’s time to see a dentist. Sudden sensitivity can be a sign of something more serious, such as decay, a cracked tooth, or gum infection.
At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we offer full check-ups to assess what’s causing your symptoms. We also have dental hygienist services to support gum health and help prevent future sensitivity.
And if you’re in pain right now, don’t wait—our emergency dentist in Leicester can help quickly.
Tooth sensitivity treatment options
The right tooth sensitivity treatment depends on what’s causing it. Here are the most common and effective options:
- Desensitising toothpaste - These help block the nerve signals from your tooth to reduce sensitivity. Brands like Sensodyne are popular and widely recommended. You can learn more about how it works here.
- Fluoride varnishes - Applied in-practice, fluoride helps strengthen enamel and reduce discomfort.
- Dental bonding or sealants - If a tooth root is exposed or enamel is worn, your dentist may apply a protective resin coating.
- Treating gum disease - If gum recession is the cause, regular hygiene visits and gum treatment are essential. Our dental hygienist in Leicester can help reduce inflammation and protect tooth roots.
- Fillings or crowns - In cases of cracks or decay, restorative treatment may be needed to stop the pain and protect the tooth.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your sensitive tooth, don’t guess. Book a check-up so we can assess and treat the problem properly.
How to prevent tooth sensitivity
To reduce your chances of developing a tooth sensitive to cold or sweet foods, try these simple tips:
- Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions
- Switch to a toothpaste for sensitive teeth
- Avoid acidic foods and fizzy drinks
- Don’t brush straight after eating—wait at least 30 minutes
- Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth in your sleep
You can also get more useful tips from NHS advice on dental hygiene.
Sensitive tooth after a filling or cleaning?
Some people notice temporary sensitivity after dental treatment. This is usually nothing to worry about and should settle within a few days. If it continues or worsens, contact your dentist to rule out further issues.
You can read more about this on Healthline’s guide to sensitive teeth.
Final thoughts: don’t ignore a sensitive tooth
Tooth sensitivity is common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. Whether it’s a single tooth sensitive to cold drinks or widespread discomfort, we can help you get to the bottom of it and find the right tooth sensitivity treatment.
If you’re in Leicester and searching for help with tooth sensitivity, Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery offers expert care and tailored advice in a friendly, professional setting.
We’re here to help with everything from routine check-ups to hygienist visits and emergency care.
Frequently asked questions - tooth sensitivity
Why is my tooth sensitive to cold but not hot?
This often means the nerve is irritated but not inflamed. It could be from exposed dentin or a small crack. We recommend seeing a dentist if it doesn’t go away.
Can tooth sensitivity go away on its own?
Sometimes, especially if it’s due to brushing too hard or after recent treatment. But if it lasts more than a few days, it’s best to get it checked.
What is the best toothpaste for sensitive teeth?
Toothpastes with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride are effective. Brands like Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief are widely recommended.
Can a sensitive tooth mean an infection?
In some cases, yes—especially if the pain is severe, sharp, or triggered when biting. It could be decay, a crack, or an abscess. If in doubt, book an appointment.
Is it normal for tooth sensitivity to get worse over time?
No. If your symptoms are getting worse, it’s a sign that something isn’t right and needs treatment. The sooner it’s seen, the easier it is to treat.