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Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth Sensitivity: Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity is an unpleasant pain that occurs when a tooth comes into contact with various stimuli, most commonly when consuming cold or hot foods and drinks. Sensitive teeth may also react to sweet or acidic foods or even to cold air when breathing in.

The most common cause of tooth sensitivity is damage to or loss of tooth enamel, or exposed tooth roots. The neck of the tooth is the area between the crown and the root, which should normally be covered by the gums.

If the gums recede or the enamel becomes worn, the root of the tooth may become exposed. The root is covered by cementum, which is not as hard or resistant as tooth enamel and contains thousands of tiny tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve centre, known as the dental pulp.

Tooth Pain from Cold, Heat or Sweet Foods

Sensitive teeth typically cause a short, sharp pain. This occurs when a stimulus reaches the tiny tubules in the exposed root. The fluid inside these tubules then stimulates the nerve endings, causing the characteristic pain triggered by cold or hot stimuli.

Tooth sensitivity most commonly occurs when:

  • consuming cold drinks or food

  • consuming hot food or drinks

  • eating sweet or acidic foods

  • breathing in cold air

Sensitive teeth may also hurt when touched, for example while eating or brushing your teeth.

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is often associated with poor or incorrect oral hygiene. There can be several causes:

  • applying too much pressure when brushing

  • using a toothbrush with hard bristles

  • inadequate tooth cleaning and plaque build-up

  • inflammation of the gums and periodontal tissues

  • gum recession and exposed tooth roots

  • a damaged, broken or chipped tooth

Exposure of the tooth roots can also occur naturally with age.

Other Factors That Can Cause Tooth Sensitivity

Other factors can also contribute to tooth sensitivity:

  • frequent consumption of acidic and sugary drinks, such as cola, soft drinks or fruit juices

  • foods high in acids and sugars

  • teeth grinding (bruxism), which causes tooth enamel wear

  • professional dental hygiene or dental procedures, such as teeth whitening

Tooth sensitivity following dental hygiene treatment or whitening is usually temporary and subsides within a few days.

Why Should Sensitive Teeth Not Be Ignored?

If tooth sensitivity is ignored, the problem may gradually worsen. Pain while brushing can lead people to avoid brushing or clean their teeth less thoroughly.

This creates a vicious cycle: plaque accumulates on the teeth, which can lead to tooth decay or tartar build-up, while gum recession may continue to worsen.

How Can You Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can often be prevented through proper oral hygiene and appropriate habits:

  • brush your teeth twice a day

  • use a soft-bristled toothbrush

  • avoid applying excessive pressure when brushing

  • regularly use interdental brushes or dental floss

  • limit highly acidic and sugary drinks

How to Treat Sensitive Teeth?

If you experience tooth sensitivity, it is advisable to visit a dental hygienist or dentist. They can assess the condition of your gums and tooth enamel, as well as any exposed tooth roots. Treatment may include adjusting your brushing technique, using a specialised toothpaste for sensitive teeth or treating exposed tooth roots.

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