Dental symptoms · Twickenham · Adult guidance
Sensitive teeth. Understand the trigger.
A sharp twinge with cold, hot or sweet food can have several causes. Persistent or new sensitivity deserves a dental check, particularly before whitening or other cosmetic treatment.
General information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for dental assessment. Source-backed guide · Dr Sunny’s clinical sign-off is pending.
Do not wait for a practice reply
When you need emergency help
Go to A&E for swelling around your eye or neck, or swelling making it hard to breathe, swallow or speak. Call 999 if you need an ambulance. Heavy mouth bleeding that will not stop or a serious face or jaw injury also requires emergency help.
For urgent dental problems when you cannot reach a dentist or get an appointment, call NHS 111. A website enquiry is not an emergency service.
First decision
When to contact a dentist
Arrange a dental check if sensitivity continues or starts suddenly. Pain that lingers, hurts when biting, disrupts sleep or comes with swelling should not be assumed to be ordinary sensitivity: contact a dentist promptly.
Possible explanations
What might be causing it?
Exposed dentine from gum recession or worn enamel may cause sensitivity. Decay, a damaged tooth or filling, and recent dental treatment can also cause discomfort. An examination helps distinguish them.
While you arrange care
Practical steps
- Try toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, following its instructions. Ask your dental team which is suitable.
- Brush gently twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Spit after brushing rather than rinsing immediately.
- Reduce acidic food and drink. After having something acidic, wait at least an hour before brushing.
- Avoid triggers while waiting for advice. Discuss existing sensitivity before starting whitening, and contact your dentist if whitening causes discomfort.
Your assessment
What the dentist will check
Tell the dentist which teeth hurt, what sets it off and how long the discomfort lasts. They can check for decay, worn surfaces, recession and problems with restorations before discussing suitable care.
Sunny Dental · One Twickenham practice
Getting in touch
2 London Road, Twickenham, London TW1 3RY · +44 7356 215372
Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Saturday and Sunday: closed.. Call to ask about availability; same-day appointments are not guaranteed. If you need urgent care and cannot get help here, contact NHS 111.
Independent patient information
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Other dental concerns