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Dental conditions

Sensitive teeth

That sharp twinge from an ice-cold drink is common, and often easy to manage. Sometimes, though, it's an early sign of something else, so it's worth knowing the difference.

Also called: dentine hypersensitivity

Book an appointment Call 02 9436 1874
Diagram of a tooth in cross-section showing how a stimulus reaches the nerve through the dentine

Sound familiar?

  • A sharp twinge with cold drinks, ice cream or cold air
  • Discomfort with sweet or acidic food
  • Pain when brushing certain teeth
  • Sensitivity after whitening or a new filling

What's usually behind it

Under your enamel is a softer layer called dentine, which has tiny channels leading to the nerve. When enamel wears away or gums pull back, those channels are exposed and cold or sweet things reach the nerve. Common causes are brushing too hard, acidic food and drinks, grinding, gum recession, decay and cracked teeth. Sensitivity after whitening or a new filling is usually temporary.

What you can do at home

  • Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice a day for a few weeks
  • Spit, don't rinse, after brushing so the toothpaste keeps working
  • Use a soft brush with gentle pressure
  • Wait about 30 minutes after acidic food or drinks before brushing
  • Use a straw for acidic or very cold drinks

When to see a dentist

  • Sensitivity in one particular tooth
  • Pain that lingers after the cold or sweet thing is gone
  • No improvement after a few weeks of sensitive toothpaste
  • Pain when you bite

How we help at Nest

We'll find out why your teeth are sensitive before treating them. Depending on the cause, we can apply desensitising treatments or fluoride varnish, cover exposed root surfaces with a tooth-coloured material, repair decay or worn areas, or make a night guard if grinding is the cause. If your gums have receded, we'll look at why and help stop it progressing.

Diagram listing common causes of sensitive teeth, from cracked tooth to gum disease

Common questions

New sensitivity can come from a change in brushing, acidic food or drink, grinding, a crack or a cavity. If it's in one tooth or lasts, have it checked.

For many people, yes, but it takes a few weeks of regular use. Spitting rather than rinsing helps.

It can be, especially if it's in one tooth. It can also be enamel wear or gum recession. An examination will tell.

Gum tissue that's been lost doesn't grow back on its own, but we can help stop it receding further and protect exposed roots.

Temporary sensitivity is common after whitening and usually settles within a few days.

Related

Toothache

Also called: dental pain, pulpitis

What your kind of pain can mean, how to ease it, and when to come in.

Learn more

Bleeding gums

Also called: gingivitis, gum disease, periodontitis

Pink in the sink is often the first sign of gum disease. Here's what helps.

Learn more

Teeth grinding

Also called: bruxism, clenching

A sore jaw in the morning, headaches or worn teeth, and how to protect them.

Learn more

Talk it through with us

We'll look at what's going on, explain your options and costs before anything starts.

Book an appointment Call 02 9436 1874

Reviewed by Dr Viki Karassellos, Dentist, Nest Dental. Last reviewed September 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Please see a dentist about your own situation.