Q&A: Why Are My Teeth Sensitive? Causes and Treatments
A sudden, sharp pain when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages is often – but not always – a sign that something is amiss with your dental health. If you’re wondering, “Why are my teeth sensitive?”, this guide will help you understand what causes tooth sensitivity, how to treat it, and which preventative strategies are worth implementing in your oral care routine.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Dentin, the inner layer of your teeth that surrounds the pulp, contains thousands of microscopic tubules that connect directly to nerve endings. When this tissue is exposed or irritated, it can cause serious discomfort. Here are the primary causes of tooth sensitivity:
Damage to the protective barrier
In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel covers the entire crown, while cementum surrounds the root. This outer layer protects the softer structures of the tooth from damage. However, erosion is incredibly common and may be caused by:
Acidic foods
Aggressive brushing
Teeth grinding
Receding gums or gum disease
Recent dental procedures
Temporary inflammation and reactivity can occur after certain types of dental procedures, including:
Professional dental cleanings
Deep periodontal cleanings (scaling and root planing)
Fillings
Root canal procedures
Teeth whitening treatments
Orthodontic adjustments
In most cases, this type of tooth sensitivity should resolve on its own within a few weeks.
Cracked tooth or cavity
Tooth sensitivity is a classic symptom of cavities, tooth decay, and cracked teeth. As bacteria eat away at deeper tissues, nerve endings become exposed, leading to major discomfort. You may find that it hurts to eat ice cream or simply bite down.
What treatments are there for sensitive teeth?
Depending on the underlying cause of your sensitive teeth, your dentist will suggest a range of treatments, ranging from at-home solutions to professional remedies. Keep in mind that, no matter which treatment you choose, great oral hygiene practices will support your overall success.
Desensitizing toothpastes
Medicated toothpastes contain ingredients like potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, arginine, and calcium compounds that calm inflamed nerves and create a protective barrier on the outer layer of the teeth. The results are cumulative, so it may take several weeks to feel notable relief.
Dental applications
Over-the-counter products aren’t always strong enough to improve tooth sensitivity. Your dentist may recommend protective coatings that fall somewhere between OTC toothpaste and invasive procedures. These include:
Fluoride varnish or gel: Concentrated fluoride strengthens enamel and protects exposed dentin.
Desensitizing sealants: Specialized resins physically seal exposed root surfaces and worn enamel.
Dental bonding: Tooth-colored composite is placed over weakened tooth surfaces.
Advanced dental procedures
If structural damage is the source of your tooth sensitivity, you’ll need a professional procedure to eliminate infected tissue and strengthen the tooth. The precise treatment will depend on the source of your sensitivity, but may include fillings, crowns, root canals, or even a gum graft surgery.
How do you prevent sensitive teeth?
Here’s the good news: it’s possible to prevent tooth sensitivity with a few strategic adjustments. Here are the best ways to avoid sensitive teeth in the future:
Brushing technique and type of toothbrush
Great oral hygiene is the first line of defense against high reactivity. Unfortunately, confusing aggression with efficacy is all too easy. On the contrary, a gentle, consistent approach is the best way to support your dental health. Using too much pressure or a toothbrush with coarse bristles can damage your enamel and worsen sensitivity.
Floss daily and use a soft toothbrush and medicated toothpaste to gently brush your teeth using small, circular motions twice each day. And don’t forget to use an oral rinse containing fluoride!
Dietary adjustments
Acidic foods and drinks gradually soften and erode enamel, leading to greater sensitivity. Consider the following guidelines to protect your teeth from decay and reactivity:
Limit sugary and acidic beverages, including sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices.
Use a straw to drink the above beverages to reduce contact with your teeth.
Consume acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based foods in moderation.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and wash away acids.
Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic substances to brush, as brushing too soon can damage softened enamel.
Eat a diet rich in calcium and phosphorus to support strong teeth and bones.
Preventing nighttime damage
Many people grind their teeth at night without even knowing it. If you have flattened or chipped teeth, notice a clicking sound in your jaw, or regularly wake up in the morning with a headache or sore jaw, you might have sleep bruxism.
While other factors, such as alcohol, poor sleep, and caffeine, can all impact these episodes, a custom-fitted mouth guard provides consistent protection against bruxism.
Sensitive teeth? Schedule a consultation at Coral Reef Dental!
Tooth sensitivity is highly variable, and a trusted dentist can help you determine why your teeth are sensitive and how to best treat your condition. Reach out to Coral Reef Dental today to learn more!