Sensitive Teeth Treatment in Surbiton: Causes, Symptoms and Remedies

Sensitive Teeth Treatment in Surbiton: Causes, Symptoms and Remedies

Post by : Esti Mayans GDC No. 6529 | 25 November 2020

For many people, it starts with something small, a sudden sharp twinge when they sip an iced drink, or a stab of pain when they breathe in cold air on the way to work. They might start avoiding hot tea, cold water, or chewing on one side without really thinking about it. Over time, those “little zaps” of tooth sensitivity can become a daily frustration.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. At Surbiton Dental, we see a lot of sensitive teeth Surbiton patients who have simply put up with discomfort for months, not realising there are gentle, effective ways to help.

What Are Sensitive Teeth? Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity happens when the inner, more vulnerable part of the tooth becomes exposed and the nerves are more easily triggered. This can lead to pain or discomfort when teeth come into contact with hot or cold drinks, sweet or acidic foods, or even when brushing and flossing.

Above the gumline, teeth are normally protected by a hard outer layer of enamel. Below the gums, the roots are covered by a similar material called cementum. Underneath both sit the dentine layer. Dentine is hard, but it contains microscopic channels (tubules) that lead towards the nerve in the centre of the tooth (the pulp).

When enamel or cementum is damaged or worn away, for example through enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth decay or tooth wear, the dentine is exposed. Heat, cold or touch can then travel through these tiny tubules and irritate the nerve, causing that familiar sharp twinge of tooth sensitivity.

Common sensitive teeth causes include:

• Untreated tooth decay or leaking fillings.
• Enamel erosion from acidic food and drinks or frequent snacking.
• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristle brush.
• Gum recession exposing root surfaces.
• Bruxism causes tooth sensitivity from grinding or clenching.
• Cracks in teeth from biting something hard or an injury.

Good daily oral hygiene, using the right brushing technique and attending regular check-ups all reduce the risk of sensitive teeth in patients experiencing pain from preventable problems like decay or trauma.

Other Symptoms That Can Occur With Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can occur on their own, but they may also appear alongside other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. As well as teeth sensitivity to hot and cold, you might notice:

• A dull ache or tooth pain when biting on one tooth.
• Visible chips, cracks or wear on the biting edges.
• Soreness or redness of the gums around a sensitive tooth.
• More frequent food trapping between teeth.
• Occasional bad breath, especially if tooth decay is present.

In some cases, sensitivity can be a sign of a deeper problem, such as a cracked tooth or an untreated cavity. Seek prompt dental advice if you have:

• Sensitivity that lingers or is getting worse.
• Pain that wakes you at night.
• Swelling of the gums or face.
• A persistent toothache, especially with fever or feeling unwell.

These may indicate infection or advanced decay and early tooth sensitivity treatment is important to protect the tooth and relieve pain. If your sensitivity is persistent or causing you concern, it’s always best to have it checked by your dentist rather than ignoring it.

Sensitive Teeth Treatment in Surbiton: How We Can Help

At Surbiton Dental, sensitive teeth treatment starts with a careful assessment:

• We’ll discuss your symptoms, triggers and daily habits.
• Check for enamel erosion, gum recession, cracks or decay.
• Assess your bite and look for signs of grinding or clenching.

Depending on what we find, your tooth sensitivity treatment may include:

• Special desensitising toothpaste or gels.
• High-fluoride products to strengthen enamel.
• Adjusting your brushing technique and toothbrush choice.
• Treating any tooth decay, worn fillings or exposed root surfaces.
• Managing bruxism tooth sensitivity with a custom night guard if needed.

Our aim is always to reduce pain, protect teeth and make eating and drinking more comfortable again.

Sensitive Teeth Remedies at Home: How to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

There are also simple, sensitive teeth remedies you can start at home to support your treatment:

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a gentle technique.
• Choose toothpaste designed for tooth sensitivity and use it consistently.
• Avoid rinsing with lots of water straight after brushing (leave the fluoride on your teeth).
• Cut down on acidic drinks and frequent snacking.
• Try to avoid very hot or very cold foods until your sensitivity improves.

Here’s a quick summary:

These steps work best when combined with professional sensitive teeth treatment in Surbiton, tailored to you.

Bruxism, Tooth Wear and Tooth Pain When Biting

If you wake with a sore jaw, headaches, or notice your teeth look flatter or chipped, you may be grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. Over time, this can thin the enamel and increase tooth pain when biting, making tooth sensitivity much worse.
In these cases, your tooth sensitivity treatment might include:

• A custom-made night guard to protect your teeth.
• Adjustments to high spots on fillings or crowns.
• Advice on stress, posture and sleep habits.

Tackling bruxism can make a big difference to long-term sensitivity and help prevent fractures.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Sensitive Teeth in Surbiton

It’s easy to dismiss tooth twinges as “just sensitivity”, but ongoing discomfort is your body’s way of telling you something has changed. Whether it’s early enamel erosion, a small crack, gum recession or grinding, there are gentle, effective, sensitive teeth remedies and treatments available.

If you’re living with sensitive teeth, you don’t have to simply put up with it. The team at Surbiton Dental can help you understand your sensitive teeth, choose the right tooth sensitivity treatment and get back to enjoying hot drinks, cold treats and everyday eating without worrying about pain.

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