Sensitive Teeth? The 7 Most Common Causes and How Dentists Diagnose the Real Problem
- tim37858
- Jan 22
- 5 min read
If a sip of cold water, a spoonful of ice cream, or even brushing your teeth makes you wince, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common dental complaints we see here at M Dental, and it can range from mildly annoying to genuinely painful. The tricky part is that sensitive teeth aren’t a diagnosis in themselves. They’re a symptom. Sometimes it’s something simple and easily fixed. Other times, it’s your mouth trying to tell you there’s a deeper issue that needs attention. In this blog, we’ll explain the seven most common causes of sensitive teeth, how dentists work out what’s really going on, and what can be done to get you comfortable again.
What Does “Sensitive Teeth” Actually Mean?
Tooth sensitivity usually happens when the protective outer layers of the tooth are compromised. Beneath the enamel which contains tiny channels leading directly to the nerve. When dentine is exposed, hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can trigger a sharp, sudden pain.
The important thing to understand is that sensitivity isn’t always about enamel alone. Gums, bite forces, previous dental work, and even stress can all play a role. That’s why a proper dental assessment matters rather than just switching toothpaste and hoping for the best.
The 7 Most Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth
1. Enamel Wear from Brushing Too Hard
Brushing your teeth should keep them healthy, but aggressive brushing can do the opposite. Using a hard-bristled brush or scrubbing back and forth too forcefully can slowly wear away enamel and cause gum recession, exposing sensitive areas of the tooth.
This is especially common in patients who are very diligent about oral hygiene but haven’t been shown the correct brushing technique.
2. Gum Recession
When gums pull back from the teeth, the roots become exposed. Tooth roots don’t have enamel, so they’re far more sensitive to temperature changes and touch.
Gum recession can be caused by brushing habits, gum disease, smoking, or natural changes with age.
Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep, can flatten biting surfaces and crack enamel over time. This exposes dentine and puts additional pressure on the nerve.
Many patients aren’t aware they grind their teeth until a dentist spots the signs during a routine check-up. But the good news is there are a range of treatments, including BTX injections, which can help.
4. Tooth Decay or Hidden Cracks
Cavities and tiny cracks in teeth can allow sensations to travel straight to the nerve. Sensitivity from decay often starts mildly and gradually worsens, particularly with sweet foods or drinks.
Cracks can be difficult to spot without proper examination and may only cause symptoms when biting or releasing pressure.
5. Acid Erosion from Diet or Reflux
Frequent exposure to acidic foods and drinks, such as fizzy drinks, citrus fruits, or sports drinks, can soften and erode enamel. Acid reflux or frequent heartburn can have the same effect, especially on the inner surfaces of the teeth.
Acid erosion often causes widespread sensitivity rather than pain in a single tooth.
6. Recent Dental Treatment
Sensitivity after treatments like fillings, crowns, whitening, or professional cleaning is very common and usually temporary. The tooth and surrounding tissues may simply need time to settle.
However, sensitivity that lasts longer than expected should always be checked.
7. Failing or Old Dental Work
Older fillings, crowns, or veneers can develop tiny gaps over time. These gaps allow bacteria and temperature changes to affect the tooth underneath, leading to sensitivity or pain.
This is one reason regular dental reviews are so important, even if everything “looks fine”.
Who Is Tooth Sensitivity Most Common In?
Sensitive teeth can affect anyone, but we tend to see it more often in:
Adults aged 20–50
People with a history of gum disease
Patients who grind or clench their teeth
Those with acidic diets or reflux
Patients with multiple fillings or crowns
People who brush too hard or use abrasive toothpaste
If sensitivity is affecting your eating, drinking, or brushing habits, it’s a sign it needs attention rather than masking. Don’t delay in seeking treatment, getting the help you need sooner rather than later will more often save you time, money and going through a painful experience.
How We Diagnose the Real Problem
Dental treatment shouldn’t be about guess work. It should entail investigating the root cause and finding the solution from there. Our Step-by-Step Process involves:
Listening to your symptoms We’ll ask when the sensitivity happens, how long it lasts, and whether it’s getting worse.
Clinical examination We check enamel wear, gum levels, bite forces, and existing dental work.
Sensitivity testing Gentle tests using cold air or temperature help pinpoint which teeth are affected.
X-rays if needed These allow us to check for decay, cracks, or issues beneath fillings.
Bite and grinding assessment We look for signs of clenching, grinding, or uneven bite forces.
Clear explanation and plan Once we know the cause, we’ll talk you through your options in plain English and provide you with a treatment plan designated around your needs.
This approach ensures treatment is targeted, predictable, and effective. Giving you peace of mind that your oral health is being cared for.
Treatment Options for Sensitive Teeth
The right treatment depends entirely on the cause. Options may include:
Desensitising toothpaste or in-practice treatments
Fluoride varnishes or protective coatings
Gum treatments or advice on brushing technique
Bite guards for grinding or clenching
Replacing worn or leaking fillings
Treating decay before it worsens
Dietary advice to reduce acid exposure
Many cases improve significantly within weeks once the underlying issue is addressed.
Benefits of Properly Diagnosing Sensitivity
Long-term relief rather than temporary masking
Protection against future damage
Improved comfort when eating and drinking
More predictable treatment outcomes
Natural-looking, conservative solutions
Peace of mind knowing nothing serious is being missed
What Results Can You Expect at M Dental?
For simple sensitivity, improvement can be felt within days to weeks. More complex cases, such as grinding or gum recession, may require staged treatment, but most patients notice steady improvement once the cause is managed.
Our goal is always to get you comfortable again while protecting your teeth for the long term.
Additional Information
Here at M Dental sensitivity assessments usually take place as part of a routine dental examination and you can book your consultation via our website.
The cost of treatment ranges depending on our initial assessment and your needs. This will be discussed during our initial consultation and you will be provided with a treatment plan. We will also direct you to finance options which you can also explore via our website.
A Real Patient Story
“I thought I just had sensitive teeth and needed a special toothpaste. It turned out I was grinding my teeth at night and wearing them down. Once M Dental explained what was happening and fitted me with a night guard, the sensitivity eased within weeks. I wish I’d come in sooner.”
Connor, Canary Wharf
If sensitive teeth are affecting your day-to-day comfort, don’t just put up with it. Book a consultation with M Dental today and let us find the real cause. Early diagnosis means simpler treatment, better results, and a more comfortable smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tooth sensitivity permanent? Not usually. Once the cause is identified and treated, most sensitivity improves or resolves completely.
Can sensitive toothpaste fix the problem on its own? It can help symptoms, but it won’t address underlying issues like decay or grinding.
Why is only one tooth sensitive? This often points to a specific issue such as a crack, cavity, or failing filling.
Is sensitivity a sign I need a root canal? Not necessarily. Most sensitive teeth do not require root canal treatment.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity? It can temporarily, but this usually settles within a few days.
Can gum recession be reversed? Recession can’t usually be reversed, but it can be stabilised and managed.
Should I avoid cold foods if my teeth are sensitive? Avoidance can help short-term, but proper diagnosis is the best solution.
How soon should I see a dentist about sensitivity? If it lasts more than a week or is getting worse, book an appointment.
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