Why are my teeth sensitive to cold and sweet things?
Sensitivity is dentine responding to a stimulus through open tubules — the layer under the enamel is exposed somewhere. Common routes are enamel wear from acidic drinks or grinding, gum recession exposing the root, an old restoration with a leaking margin, or the weeks after whitening or a deep cleaning. Sensitivity that is sharp and stops immediately is usually dentine; an ache that lingers after the stimulus is removed points to the pulp instead, and that needs a different treatment.
What sensitive teeth usually turns out to be
- Gum recession with exposed root dentine
- Enamel erosion from acidic food, drinks or reflux
- Abrasion from hard brushing, or attrition from grinding
- A leaking or fractured filling
- Recent whitening, scaling or restorative work — usually temporary
- A cracked tooth or early pulpitis
What to do before you are seen
- Switch to a soft brush and a desensitising toothpaste, used twice daily
- Reduce acidic drinks, and do not brush immediately after them
- If you clench or grind, ask about a nightguard
- Get it examined if the ache lingers, wakes you, or is limited to one tooth
This is general guidance and does not replace an examination. Only a clinical examination with radiographs can identify which tooth or tissue is causing your symptom.
When to see us
- Gums that bleed without provocation, or bleeding that has become heavier
- Teeth that feel loose, are drifting, or gaps that are opening up
- Persistent bad breath or taste, gum abscesses, or pus on pressing the gum
Detailed guides on this symptom
Tooth Root Sensitivity Caused by Exposed Dentin
Exposed tooth root pain arises when gum recession or enamel loss bares the underlying dentine, allowing external stimuli to trigger sharp nerve discomfort. This guide examines its anatomical causes, clinical assessment, evidence-based desensitising and surgical treatments, and prevention.
Custom Night Guards for Sleep Bruxism Management
Sleep bruxism involves involuntary nocturnal clenching and grinding that damages dentition and craniomandibular structures. A custom night guard for grinding provides a precise occlusal barrier, redistributing forces, protecting enamel, reducing muscular strain, and stabilising the temporomandibular joint.
Aggressive Toothbrushing and Enamel Abrasion at Gums
Toothbrush abrasion at the gumline causes irreversible loss of enamel, exposed dentine, and gum recession. Learn about non-carious cervical lesions, their underlying causes, clinical diagnosis, desensitising or restorative treatments, and safe, gentle brushing techniques to prevent long-term structural damage.
Sugar and Acid Erosion
Sugar and acid can slowly wear away your enamel, a process called erosion. Learn how to prevent this irreversible damage and keep your teeth strong every day.
Acid Reflux and Tooth Erosion
Understand how acid reflux can cause severe tooth erosion, and learn how to protect your enamel and maintain oral health despite this condition.
Mastering Correct Brushing Technique
Achieving optimal oral health starts with the correct brushing technique. This guide explains how to effectively remove plaque without damaging your precious gum tissue or sensitive tooth enamel daily.
Understanding and Treating Receding Gums
Gum recession exposes sensitive tooth roots and increases decay risk. Learn the causes of recession and the treatments available to restore your gum line and improve comfort.
Understanding Hypomineralised Molars (MIH)
MIH affects tooth enamel quality, leading to sensitivity. Dr. Amit Sharma explains how to manage hypomineralised molars and ensure your child's long-term comfort.
Children Who Grind Teeth During Sleep Causes
Paediatric sleep bruxism involves involuntary nocturnal tooth grinding in children. While often benign and self-limiting during dental development, it can stem from airway obstruction, central nervous system arousal, or emotional stress, requiring thorough clinical evaluation.
Tooth Wear and Enamel Loss From Heavy Clenching
Heavy clenching and nocturnal bruxism generate excessive masticatory forces that wear away protective enamel, exposing vulnerable dentine. This comprehensive clinical guide details the causes, diagnosis, staging, restorative pathways, and long-term preventive strategies for managing severe tooth wear.
Acidic Foods and Drinks That Weaken Tooth Enamel
Dental erosion occurs when non-bacterial dietary acids chemically dissolve protective enamel. Understanding acidic foods and drinks, identifying clinical wear patterns early, and adopting evidence-based remineralisation protocols are vital to preserving tooth structure and preventing complex restorative intervention.
Tooth Sensitivity Caused by Loss of Enamel Layer
Tooth sensitivity caused by enamel loss occurs when protective mineralised tissue degrades, exposing microscopic dentinal tubules to external thermal and physical stimuli. This clinical guide covers aetiology, diagnostic assessments, evidence-based restorative treatments, long-term prevention protocols, and key red flag symptoms.