TL;DR: Sensitive teeth cause short, sharp pain with cold, hot, sweet, or acidic food and drink. Common causes include worn enamel, exposed root surfaces from gum recession, decay, cracks, and recent dental work. Toothpaste made for sensitivity is a common first step. Persistent or one-sided pain needs a dentist to find the cause. This guide has 8 sections and answers 3 frequently asked questions. It lists 3 primary sources, from NHS.uk and the BDA. Facts were checked on 2026-10-13; it is educational information, not clinical advice.
Educational information only, not clinical advice. Facts are checked against the primary sources listed under Sources (NHS.uk, GDC, CQC and peer-reviewed research), last checked 13 October 2026.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitivity occurs when the layer under the enamel, dentine, becomes exposed. Dentine contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve, so temperature, air, or sugar can trigger a sharp twinge. The cause of that exposure differs from person to person.
Which conditions expose dentine?
Common causes include:
- Enamel wear: from acidic foods and drinks, heartburn or reflux, or grinding.
- Gum recession: the root surface, which has no enamel, becomes exposed.
- Brushing too hard: heavy brushing can wear enamel and push gums back.
- Decay: see tooth decay stages.
- Cracked or chipped teeth and worn fillings.
- Recent treatment: whitening or a filling can cause temporary sensitivity.
Receding gums can also be linked to gum disease. See gum disease from gingivitis to periodontitis.
What helps sensitive teeth at home?
General measures include using toothpaste labelled for sensitive teeth, brushing gently with a soft brush, limiting acidic drinks, and using a mouthguard if a dentist has diagnosed grinding. The NHS suggests that a dentist can also apply fluoride varnish or other desensitising treatment. Home care does not replace a check for the underlying cause.
When is sensitivity a sign of something more serious?
See a dentist if pain lasts after the trigger has gone, wakes you at night, affects only one tooth, comes with swelling, or persists for more than a few weeks. These signs can point to decay, a crack, or infection. Swelling that affects breathing or swallowing needs 999 or A&E, and NHS 111 can direct urgent dental access.
How does a dentist treat sensitivity?
The dentist examines the teeth, may take X-rays, and identifies the cause. Options include fluoride treatment, bonding over exposed roots, replacing worn fillings, treating gum disease, or advice on diet and brushing technique. A hygienist can also help. See dental hygienist visit.
Where can I find a dentist?
Check the GDC register and compare practices. You can browse Essex dentists in the Essex directory. For plaque control, see plaque and tartar removal.
When is sensitivity a sign of something more serious?
Widespread, brief sensitivity is commonly managed at home. Pain in one tooth that lingers after hot or cold, wakes you at night, or comes with a visible crack or hole points to decay, a crack or a nerve problem, and toothpaste will not fix it.
Try this, then book if…
Try for a few weeks: desensitising toothpaste applied by brushing rather than rinsed away, a soft brush with light pressure, and fewer acidic drinks (wait before brushing after them).
Book a dentist if it is one tooth only, the pain lasts more than a few seconds after the trigger, there is no improvement after about four weeks, or you can see a crack, hole or gum swelling.
To find a practice, browse dentists in Essex by district.
FAQ
Is sensitivity normal after whitening?
Temporary sensitivity is a known effect. Tell the dentist if it persists.
Can sensitive teeth go away?
Sometimes, depending on the cause. Treating the cause helps most.
Should I stop brushing if teeth hurt?
No. Brush gently with a soft brush and see a dentist if it continues.
Sources
- NHS.uk, Healthy teeth and gums: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/
- NHS.uk, Gum disease: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gum-disease/
- British Dental Association: https://www.bda.org/