Tooth Sensitivity Treatment London | Sensitive Teeth | South Kensington

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Your Teeth Are Trying to Tell You Something

Tooth sensitivity—that sharp, sudden pain triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods—affects around 1 in 3 adults. While it's incredibly common, it's not normal. Sensitivity is a symptom, not a condition in itself, and finding the underlying cause is key to lasting relief.

At our South Kensington practice, we don't just prescribe sensitive toothpaste and send you home. We investigate why your teeth are sensitive in the first place. Sometimes the cause is simple and easily addressed; other times sensitivity signals an underlying problem that needs treatment before it worsens.

The good news is that most causes of sensitivity are treatable. Whether you need a simple fluoride application, gum treatment, or restorative work, we can help you enjoy your favourite foods again without wincing in anticipation.

Why Teeth Become Sensitive

To understand sensitivity, you need to understand tooth structure. Your tooth has three layers:

Sensitivity occurs when the protective enamel is compromised or the gum recedes, exposing the underlying dentin. The microscopic tubes in dentin (called dentinal tubules) act like tiny straws, transmitting stimuli directly to the nerve. Hot coffee, cold ice cream, acidic lemon—all trigger fluid movement in these tubes, which the nerve interprets as pain.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

When to Seek Urgent Care: Sensitivity that's severe, constant, or accompanied by swelling may indicate an infection or dying nerve. Don't wait—call us immediately. Learn more about toothache emergencies →

Treatment Options

Treatment depends entirely on what's causing your sensitivity. Our approach is diagnostic first—we identify the underlying problem before recommending solutions.

1. Professional Fluoride Treatments (From £75)

High-concentration fluoride varnish applied in-clinic can strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity by occluding (blocking) the dentinal tubules. We may also prescribe prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste for home use.

• Quick in-office application
• Strengthens remaining enamel
• Blocks tubules to reduce nerve stimulation
• May need repeated applications for best results

2. Desensitising Agents

Products containing potassium nitrate, arginine, or calcium phosphate can be applied professionally or used at home. These work by either blocking tubules or calming the nerve itself.

3. Composite Bonding (From £295 per tooth)

When sensitivity is caused by exposed roots, worn enamel, or abrasion defects, composite bonding can cover and protect the vulnerable area:

• Covers exposed dentin and root surfaces
• Repairs toothbrush abrasion notches
• Completed in one appointment
• Tooth-coloured and natural-looking

4. Gum Grafting

For significant gum recession, a gum graft can cover exposed roots permanently. This involves taking tissue from elsewhere in your mouth (usually the palate) and grafting it over the recession.

5. Night Guard for Grinding (From £495)

If grinding is causing sensitivity, a custom-fitted night guard protects teeth from further wear. This also addresses bite problems and TMJ symptoms.

6. Root Canal Treatment (From £950)

If sensitivity is severe and other treatments haven't worked—particularly if a tooth's nerve is inflamed or dying—root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the nerve and eliminate pain permanently.

7. Treating Underlying Decay or Damage

If sensitivity is caused by cavities, cracks, or failing restorations, treating the underlying problem—with fillings, crowns, or other restorations—will resolve the sensitivity.

Managing Sensitivity at Home

While professional treatment addresses the cause, these strategies can help manage symptoms:

Frequently Asked Questions

Cosmetic Dentistry Clinic
20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 3DL