Mild twinges to severe discomfort for several hours can be the result of over-sensitive teeth, it can also be an early warning sign of a more serious dental issue.

A recent study has found as many as 1 in 8 adults has over-sensitive teeth, with occurrences being most common in young adults, women and people who had receding gums or used a tooth-whitening kit at home. Sensitive teeth often occurs when the enamel on the tooth wears away revealing the softer dentine underneath. Once the dentine is exposed, a tooth can become sensitive. You are more likely to experience sensitivity and discomfort when drinking or eating something cold, when cold catches your teeth, and occasionally with hot, spicy or sweet food and drinks.

Causes of sensitivity:
-Toothbrush abrasion: Brushing too hard and brushing from side to side causing enamel to wear away, particularly where the teeth meet the gums.

-Dental erosion: This refers to the loss of enamel caused by acid attacks on the teeth from acidic foods and drinks.

-Gum recession: Plaque or tartar building up on the teeth can cause the gums to recede and even destroy the bone supporting the tooth.

-Tooth grinding: This habit involving clenching and grinding the teeth can cause enamel to wear away.

-Cracked teeth or fillings: Extreme temperatures (although particularly cold) may cause discomfort and pain due to cracked or broken teeth.

-Tooth bleaching: Although some sensitivity for a short time after tooth bleaching is considered normal, if discomfort is prolonged patients are encouraged to seek advice from their dentist.

Treating sensitive teeth at home:
There are several brands of toothpaste designed to help ease the discomfort of sensitive teeth. Using these toothpastes twice a day and rubbing them onto the sensitive areas can aid the problem. It is important you do not avoid brushing your teeth due to sensitivity or pain, this will make the problem worse. It may take anything from a few days to several weeks to take effect, however, if there is no improvement after a few weeks or the pain worsens - you must seek treatment from you dentist.

How to prevent sensitive teeth:
-Determine the cause with your dentist.
-Receive regular cleanings from a dental hygienist.
-Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using small circular motions, a soft-bristled brush and with a fluoride toothpaste. Avoid brushing from side to side.
-Change your toothbrush every two to three months.
-Limit the amount of sugary foods and fizzy, acidic drinks you consume, eating/drinking them only at mealtimes.
-For those who grind their teeth, discuss the possibility of having a mouthguard made to wear at night to prevent damaged caused by grinding.
-If you are considering having your teeth whitened, avoid over the counter whitening kits and instead discuss your options with your dentist before starting any treatment.
-Visit your dentist regularly to highlight any signs of potential dental problems.

Sensitive teeth is a message telling you something in your mouth is wrong and in danger of being damaged. Take swift action and the damage is minimised - the message of sensitive teeth can be a good thing if you listen to it and take action.