If cold drinks, sweet snacks, or even brushing your teeth cause a sharp pain, you’re likely dealing with tooth sensitivity. At Carlton Dental, we see many patients looking for solutions to tooth sensitivity in Christchurch, and we’re here to help you understand what causes it—and how to treat it gently and effectively.
Tooth sensitivity often occurs when enamel wears down or when the roots of your teeth are exposed. Here are the most common causes we see in our Christchurch clinic:
Brushing too hard, using a firm toothbrush, or eating acidic foods can erode enamel, exposing the underlying dentin.
When gums pull back due to age or gum disease, they expose the sensitive root surface.
Grinding your teeth—often while sleeping—can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.
Untreated cavities or cracked teeth allow stimuli to reach the nerves, causing sharp pain.
Sensitivity after fillings, crowns, or whitening is usually temporary—but it’s best to have it checked if it lingers.
We provide a range of gentle, effective treatments tailored to your specific cause of sensitivity. Some of the most common options include:
We recommend professional-strength toothpaste that blocks pain signals and strengthens enamel.
In-clinic fluoride varnish helps strengthen the enamel and reduce discomfort.
We can help manage gum recession with targeted hygiene plans and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist for further care.
If tooth grinding is the cause, we may recommend a custom night guard to protect your enamel.
For severe sensitivity caused by cracks or decay, we can restore the tooth with fillings, crowns, or bonding.
Tooth sensitivity may seem minor at first, but it can quickly affect your eating habits, sleep, and quality of life. If the discomfort lasts more than a few days or worsens, don’t wait.
At Carlton Dental Christchurch, we’ll help identify the cause and guide you through the most appropriate and gentle treatment options.
Don’t let sensitive teeth stop you from enjoying life. Carlton Dental offers expert care for tooth sensitivity in Christchurch—with a warm, personalised approach.
August 4, 2025