Tooth Sensitivity
Short, sharp pain from hot, cold or sweet triggers — usually treatable once the cause is found.
What it means
Understanding tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp pain triggered by hot, cold, sweet or sometimes acidic food and drink, or by cold air. It is extremely common and usually happens when the softer layer beneath the enamel, called dentine, becomes exposed. Dentine contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve, so when it is uncovered, everyday triggers can reach the nerve more easily.
Sensitivity can come and go, affect one tooth or many, and range from a minor niggle to something that genuinely affects your enjoyment of food and drink. Because it can be a sign of several different underlying issues, it is worth having it assessed so the cause — and therefore the best solution — can be identified.
A GDC-registered dentist will examine your teeth and gums to find why the dentine is exposed and recommend the most suitable way to settle the sensitivity.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity
Several factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Being aware of them can help — though only an examination can confirm what applies to you. Common contributing factors include:
- Enamel worn thin by erosion or over-vigorous brushing
- Gum recession exposing sensitive root surfaces
- Tooth decay or a cracked or chipped tooth
- A worn, leaking or lost filling
- Grinding or clenching
- Temporary sensitivity after whitening or some dental treatments
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some can be subtle. You may notice one or more of the following:
- Short, sharp pain from hot, cold or sweet triggers
- Discomfort when breathing in cold air
- Sensitivity when brushing certain areas
- Twinges that fade quickly once the trigger is removed
- Discomfort focused on the gum line or exposed roots
- Sensitivity that varies from day to day
How we assess it at our Wimpole Street practice
Because the same symptoms can have different causes, an accurate diagnosis always comes first. At Wimpole Dental, a GDC-registered dentist will listen to your concerns, examine the area and — where clinically appropriate — take X-rays or other records to understand what is happening beneath the surface. Our practice is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
You will then have your options explained in plain English, with a written, itemised estimate before any treatment begins — and never any pressure to proceed. Flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
What to expect when you visit us
From your very first contact, our aim is to make dental care feel calm, clear and unhurried. A member of our reception team will help you find a time that suits you, including evening and weekend appointments, and if you are in pain we will do our best to see you the same day. You are welcome as a new patient, and there is no obligation to proceed with any treatment.
At your appointment, a GDC-registered dentist will take time to understand your concerns about tooth sensitivity, carry out a careful examination and, where clinically appropriate, take X-rays or other records. They will then explain what they have found and set out the suitable options — from doing nothing and monitoring, through to the treatments described above — so you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, you are far from alone, and we are experienced in caring for nervous patients. Please tell us how you feel when you book: we will move at your pace, explain each step before it happens, and focus on keeping you comfortable throughout. Our priority is honest, gentle care that puts your long-term health first.
Solutions & treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause. Where sensitivity is due to exposed dentine without another problem, desensitising toothpastes and professional fluoride or sealing treatments can help block the channels that lead to the nerve. Improving brushing technique and reducing acidic foods also protects vulnerable areas.
If sensitivity is caused by decay, a crack, a failing filling or gum recession, then treating that underlying issue — for example with a filling, bonding to cover an exposed root, or gum treatment — resolves the sensitivity at source. Your dentist will explain which applies to you.
Persistent or worsening sensitivity should always be assessed, as it can occasionally be an early sign of a problem that is easier to treat when caught promptly.
The treatment we most often use
Dental Check-up
A thorough new-patient examination with a GDC-registered dentist, including X-rays where clinically needed and a written plan.
Prevention & everyday care
While professional care is important, good daily habits make a real difference. The following steps can help:
- Use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle technique
- Try a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
- Avoid brushing straight after acidic food or drink
- Reduce acidic foods and drinks
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Keep up regular check-ups and hygiene visits
When to see a dentist
If this sounds familiar, it's worth having it assessed early — problems are almost always simpler to treat when caught sooner. A £30 consultation lets a GDC-registered dentist find the cause and explain your options in plain English, with no pressure to proceed.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Mild, occasional sensitivity is very common and often manageable, but sensitivity that is persistent, worsening or focused on one tooth can indicate a problem such as decay or a crack. Having it assessed helps identify and treat the cause.
For many people, toothpastes designed for sensitivity can reduce symptoms when used regularly, as they help block the channels in exposed dentine. If sensitivity persists despite using them, an examination is advisable to check for an underlying cause.
Temporary sensitivity after professional whitening is common and usually settles within a few days. Using a sensitivity toothpaste and following your dentist's aftercare advice helps. Whitening should always be carried out under the care of a GDC-registered dental professional.
No. This page is general education to help you understand a common concern. It is not a diagnosis, and the same symptoms can have different causes. Only an in-person examination by a GDC-registered dentist can confirm what is happening and what, if anything, needs treating.
You will always receive a written, itemised quote before any treatment begins. New patients start with a £30 consultation; flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
That is very common and completely understood. Our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients: your dentist will explain everything in plain English, work at your pace and never pressure you to proceed. Let us know how you feel when you book so we can make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Yes. Wimpole Dental is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC), with numbers you can verify on the public register. Our marketing follows advertising standards guidance for healthcare, and we never guarantee outcomes.
You can book online, request a call back, or call us on 020 7183 0692. New patients are welcome, and we offer evening and weekend appointments as well as same-day emergency slots where possible.
Related concerns in tooth damage & decay
Book Today
Ready to start your smile journey?
Book a £30, no-obligation consultation. You'll leave with a written, itemised plan — and clarity on cost, timeline and options.
22 Wimpole St, London W1G 8GQ · CQC regulated · GDC-registered clinicians