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Sensitive Teeth: Why Cold Drinks Hurt and How to Fix It
A sharp twinge with cold drinks? Learn what causes tooth sensitivity, how sensitive toothpaste works, and when it signals something more serious.
Quick answer
Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp pain when teeth meet cold, hot, sweet or acidic food and drink. It usually happens when the inner layer of the tooth (dentine) is exposed by worn enamel or receding gums. Using a sensitive toothpaste twice a day, brushing gently with a soft brush and cutting down on acidic drinks often helps within a few weeks. See a dentist if pain lingers, wakes you at night or affects one tooth.
In this article
Sensitivity is very common, especially with cold drinks in a hot climate. It usually responds well to simple changes.
Why teeth become sensitive
- Enamel wear (erosion): from acidic drinks such as fizzy drinks, juices, energy drinks and frequent lemon water.
- Receding gums: exposing the root surface, which has no enamel.
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush.
- Tooth grinding at night.
- Tooth decay, a cracked tooth or a broken filling.
- After whitening or dental treatment: usually temporary.
What helps
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice a day. It can take a few weeks to work. You can also rub a little on the sensitive area before bed.
- Brush gently with a soft brush.
- Spit, don't rinse after brushing, to leave the protective toothpaste on your teeth.
- Limit acidic food and drink to mealtimes, and drink water afterwards.
- Wait about an hour after acidic food or drink before brushing.
Treatments at the dentist
Depending on the cause, your dentist may apply a fluoride varnish or desensitising agent, cover exposed root surfaces with a tooth-coloured filling, repair a broken filling, or recommend a night guard for grinding.
When sensitivity is a warning sign
See a dentist promptly if:
- Pain lasts more than a few seconds after the trigger is gone
- One tooth is sensitive to biting or chewing
- Pain wakes you at night or throbs on its own
- You notice swelling, a bad taste or a gum boil
These can be signs of decay or an inflamed nerve that may need treatment such as a filling or root canal treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
It can be, but often it isn't. A dental check-up can tell the difference.
Does whitening toothpaste cause sensitivity?
Some whitening products can increase sensitivity in some people. Switch to a sensitive toothpaste if this happens.