There’s nothing worse than that sharp, unexpected zing of pain when you sip a hot coffee or bite into an ice cream. If you’ve ever felt this, you’re not alone – millions of people experience tooth sensitivity. But why does it happen, and what can you do about it? 

Let’s explore the causes and solutions to help you enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without a wince: 

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity happens when the protective layers of your teeth wear down, exposing the soft dentin underneath. This dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerves inside your teeth, making them more reactive to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods. Here are some common culprits:

1. Brushing Too Hard

Yes, you can be too enthusiastic with your brushing! Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too aggressively can wear down your enamel and even irritate your gums, exposing the sensitive root surfaces of your teeth.

2. Gum Recession

If your gums start to pull back, they expose more of your tooth’s root, which doesn’t have the same protective enamel. This can make your teeth feel much more sensitive, especially to temperature changes.

3. Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding your teeth, even unknowingly at night, can wear away enamel over time. This exposes the sensitive layers of your teeth and can lead to discomfort.

4. Acidic Foods and Drinks

Frequent consumption of acidic foods like citrus fruits, fizzy drinks and vinegar-based dressings can erode enamel, leading to increased sensitivity.

5. Tooth Decay or Damage

Cavities, worn fillings, or cracks in your teeth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, causing pain and sensitivity.

6. Teeth Whitening Treatments

Some over-the-counter and professional whitening treatments can temporarily make teeth more sensitive, especially if the whitening agents penetrate the enamel.

How to Treat and Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

The good news? Tooth sensitivity isn’t something you just have to live with! There are plenty of ways to reduce and even prevent it.

1. Use a Sensitivity Toothpaste

Switch to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These formulas contain ingredients like potassium nitrate, which can help block nerve signals and strengthen enamel.

2. Brush Gently with a Medium-Bristled Brush

Swap to a medium-bristled toothbrush and use gentle circular motions instead of scrubbing. This will protect your enamel and prevent further gum irritation.

3. Try a Remineralising Toothpaste

Look for a toothpaste that contains remineralising ingredients like hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphate. These help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity naturally, without the use of fluoride. 

4. Wear a Night Guard

If you grind your teeth at night, a custom-made night guard from your dentist can help prevent enamel wear and reduce sensitivity.

5. Avoid Acidic and Sugary Foods

Cutting back on acidic and sugary foods can help protect your enamel. If you do consume them, try rinsing your mouth with water afterwards to neutralise the acids.

6. Visit Our Dentists for Professional Care

If your sensitivity persists, book a routine appointment with our dentists. At our family dental practice, we check for underlying issues like decay or gum disease and recommend treatments such as desensitising varnishes, bonding or even gum grafts if needed.

Say Goodbye to Sensitivity!

Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to control your life. By making small changes to your oral care routine and getting the right treatments from our Chichester dentists, you can protect your teeth and enjoy life’s little treats without a worry. 

If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth, don’t ignore them. At the Family Dental Clinic, we can help you find the best solution for lasting relief. 

Call our Chichester dental clinic today on 01243 771171 to book an appointment. 

Noticed a little pink in the sink after brushing or flossing? It’s easy to dismiss bleeding gums as nothing serious, but they could be your body’s way of sounding the alarm. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed, and if they do, it’s worth paying attention. 

At the Family Dental Clinic, we’re here to talk about why bleeding gums happen, what they could mean for your health and how you can keep your smile in top shape:

Why Do Gums Bleed?

Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum inflammation, known as gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease. This happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline, irritating the gums and making them more prone to bleeding. But that’s not the only reason your gums might be bleeding. Other causes include:

• Brushing too hard – Using a firm toothbrush or applying too much pressure can irritate your gums.
• Flossing inconsistently – If you suddenly start flossing after a long break, your gums might bleed at first, but they should improve with regular care.
• Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menopause and even puberty can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding.
• Vitamin deficiencies – A lack of vitamin C or K in your diet could contribute to gum bleeding.
• Medical conditions & medications – Certain conditions like diabetes, or medications like blood thinners can make gums more likely to bleed.

When to Take Bleeding Gums Seriously

Occasional bleeding might not be a big deal, but persistent bleeding is a red flag. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to:

• Gum recession – Gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and increasing sensitivity.
• Loose or lost teeth – Periodontitis damages the structures that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. 

• Increased risk of health problems – Gum disease isn’t just about your mouth. Studies have linked it to heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s due to the inflammation and bacteria entering the bloodstream.

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

The good news? Bleeding gums are usually reversible with the right care! Here’s how you can protect your gum health:

1. Brush twice a day with a medium-bristled toothbrush . 
2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
3. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup.
4. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
5. Stay hydrated – drinking water helps wash away bacteria and food debris.
6. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.

Gum Disease Treatment: What Are Your Options?

If your gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, professional treatment is essential to prevent further damage. Our Chichester dentists may recommend:

• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) – This removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent further infection.
• Antibiotic treatments – In some cases, at our family dental practice we may prescribe antibiotics to control bacterial infection.
• Surgical options – Advanced gum disease may require gum grafting or flap surgery to restore lost tissue and protect tooth roots.

When Endodontics Comes into Play

If gum disease is left untreated, it can spread beyond the gums, affecting the roots of your teeth and even the surrounding bone. In severe cases, the infection can reach the inner pulp of the tooth, causing pain and potential tooth loss. This is where endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) comes in.

A root canal removes infected tissue from inside the tooth preventing further damage and saving the tooth from extraction. By addressing the infection at its source, endodontics plays a key role in preserving your natural smile.

The sooner gum disease is treated, the less likely it is to cause serious complications – so don’t ignore the signs. 

A healthy smile starts with healthy gums!

If your gums are bleeding, swollen or tender, don’t wait for it to get worse. Call our Chichester dental clinic today on 01243 771171 to book a routine appointment so we can get to the root of the problem.