Tooth sensitivity causes a sharp pain when eating or drinking certain things. It is very common and usually treatable — find out what is behind it and what helps.
Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp pain that you feel in one or more teeth — usually triggered by something hot, cold, sweet, or sour. It can also happen when you breathe in cold air.
It is very common — around 1 in 3 adults in the UK experience it at some point. The medical term is dentine hypersensitivity.
The pain happens because the protective outer layer of the tooth (enamel or cementum over the root) has worn away or the gum has receded, leaving the softer dentine underneath exposed. Dentine contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve of the tooth — when these are exposed, triggers like cold or hot reach the nerve more easily.
Common causes
There are several reasons why dentine can become exposed:
Brushing too hard — scrubbing your teeth with a hard brush or using too much pressure wears away enamel and pushes the gum back.
Gum recession — gums pulling back (from gum disease or aggressive brushing) exposes the sensitive root surface.
Tooth erosion — acid from drinks (fizzy drinks, fruit juice, sports drinks) or from acid reflux dissolves enamel over time.
Tooth grinding (bruxism) — grinding wears enamel down, especially on biting surfaces.
Cracked or chipped teeth — cracks can allow temperature and sensation to reach the nerve.
Tooth whitening — some patients experience temporary sensitivity during or after whitening treatment.
Recent dental work — fillings and other procedures can cause short-term sensitivity.
Signs and symptoms
The main symptom is a sudden, sharp, short-lived pain in a tooth or group of teeth. It is triggered by:
Cold food or drinks — especially ice cream or cold water
Hot drinks like tea or coffee
Sweet or acidic food and drinks
Breathing in cold air
Brushing or flossing the affected area
If you have a pain that lingers for more than 30 seconds after the trigger is removed, or a constant, spontaneous ache, this is different from typical sensitivity and may indicate inflammation or damage to the nerve inside the tooth. Please see your dentist promptly — this type of pain may require root canal treatment rather than desensitising measures.
How is sensitivity treated?
Treatment depends on the cause:
Desensitising toothpaste — contains compounds (such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride) that block the tiny channels in dentine. You need to use it consistently for several weeks to see results. Apply a small amount to the sensitive tooth with a finger after brushing and do not rinse.
Fluoride varnish or gel — applied by your dentist in the surgery to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Bonding or white filling material — can be applied to the exposed root surface to seal and protect it.
Gum treatment — if sensitivity is caused by receding gums, treating the gum disease or addressing the cause of recession may help.
A mouthguard — if grinding is the cause, a custom-made nightguard can protect your teeth.
What you can do at home
Simple changes can make a real difference:
Switch to a desensitising toothpaste — use it consistently for at least 4–6 weeks before assessing whether it is helping.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular movements — not a scrubbing action.
Wait 30–60 minutes after eating acidic food or drinks before brushing — brushing immediately afterwards can make erosion worse.
Cut down on acidic and sugary drinks. When you do have them, use a straw to reduce contact with teeth.
Do not brush immediately after vomiting — rinse with water or fluoride mouthwash first, then wait before brushing.
When to see your dentist
Book an appointment if:
Sensitivity is severe or getting worse
You have sensitivity in a specific tooth that is not improving with desensitising toothpaste after 4–6 weeks
You have a constant toothache rather than a short, sharp pain
You notice swelling, a cracked tooth, or visible changes to the gum around a sensitive tooth
It is important to find the underlying cause rather than just masking the symptom. Your dentist will examine the area and take X-rays if needed.
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. Your dentist will discuss your individual circumstances and any risks and treatment specific to you. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances.
References
Aligned with guidance from: NICE, SDCEP, FGDP(UK).