Sensitive gums or sore teeth can make everyday habits uncomfortable — from eating hot or cold foods to brushing your teeth. Gum and tooth sensitivity are often connected, and understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward feeling better.
While sensitivity may last only a few seconds for some, others experience lingering discomfort for hours. Either way, it’s a sign something needs attention.
Why Your Gums and Teeth Feel Sensitive
Tooth and gum sensitivity can stem from several issues. Sensitivity in teeth is often linked to dentin hypersensitivity — when the dentin (the inner layer of your tooth) becomes exposed. Gum sensitivity, on the other hand, is commonly tied to inflammation, irritation, or changes in the gumline.
Common causes include:
1. Brushing Too Hard or Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Brushing aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down tooth enamel and irritate your gums. This can lead to:
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Sensitive or sore gums
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Receding gumlines
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Exposed dentin, increasing tooth sensitivity
Technique matters as much as your brush. Try a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently massage the gums with small back-and-forth motions instead of scrubbing.
2. Acidic Foods and Tooth Erosion
Highly acidic foods and beverages — such as citrus fruits, soft drinks, energy drinks, and certain yoghurts — can erode enamel and irritate soft gum tissues. This may result in:
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Sharp tooth pain
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Inflamed, tender gums
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Visible gumline sores in some cases
Avoid brushing for 20–30 minutes after consuming acidic foods so your saliva can rebalance the mouth’s pH before brushing.
3. Hormonal Changes
Hormones can affect the blood supply to your gums, making them more reactive. The American Dental Association notes increased gum sensitivity during pregnancy, which may heighten the risk of gum inflammation or tooth decay. Let your dentist and doctor know if you notice changes in your gum health during pregnancy.
Other Causes of Gum and Tooth Sensitivity
Beyond the three key reasons above, several other issues may contribute:
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Tooth decay or worn fillings exposing dentin
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Broken teeth
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Gum recession, which exposes the root surface
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Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night
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Oral appliances such as braces, retainers, dentures, or mouthguards that temporarily irritate gum tissue
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Post-treatment sensitivity after dental procedures
If oral appliances are causing irritation, sensitivity often improves as your mouth adapts. However, persistent tenderness should be checked by your dentist.
Symptoms to Watch For
Sensitive gums often present with:
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Swelling or tenderness
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Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
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Soreness after brushing
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Signs of gingivitis (bleeding gums, inflammation)
These symptoms may indicate gum disease or enamel erosion — both reasons to book a dental visit.
What You Can Do About Sensitive Gums and Teeth
Improve Your Daily Oral Care
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimise abrasion.
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Try a sensitive toothpaste — it can reduce discomfort while in use.
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Avoid aggressive brushing; focus on gentle, thorough cleaning.
Watch Your Diet
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Reduce acidic foods and drinks to lower the risk of enamel erosion.
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Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acids.
Manage Teeth Grinding
Grinding wears down enamel and stresses the gumline. If you wake with jaw pain, tightness, or your partner notices grinding at night, talk to your dentist. A custom nightguard can help.
Visit Your Dentist Early
Prevention is always better than treatment. A dentist can identify the cause of sensitivity and recommend the right approach, which may include:
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Fillings or replacing worn restorations
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Extracting severely damaged teeth (only where necessary)
If you’re experiencing persistent gum or tooth sensitivity, don’t wait — your dentist can help prevent more serious issues, including gum disease.
Enquire at your local Lumino practice to see if they offer the service you require.