What causes tooth sensitivity? Causes, care, and prevention.

Tooth sensitivity that warrants a visit to the dentist includes symptoms that persist for more than 1-2 weeks, worsen, or are accompanied by gum recession, swollen gums, tooth discoloration, or cavities in the tooth, as these may be signs of decay, cracked teeth, or gingivitis.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the dentin or tooth root is exposed to the oral environment, making the tooth nerves sensitive to stimuli such as heat, cold, sweets, and acidic foods. In addition, tooth wear, decay, and cracks can also cause tooth sensitivity.
Treatment for tooth sensitivity includes applying desensitizing agents, fluoride treatments, fillings, crowns, or root canal treatment, depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms, to reduce pain and prevent further problems.

Tooth sensitivity is a temporary pain or burning sensation in the tooth when it comes into contact with hot or cold things, sweets, sour substances, or even light brushing. It's a common problem at any age, and if left untreated, tooth sensitivity can interfere with daily life and signal an underlying oral health issue. This article will help you understand the causes, treatments, and prevention of tooth sensitivity to help you manage this condition properly.

What is tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a sudden, sharp pain in the tooth that occurs when the nerves in the tooth are stimulated by various external factors. Our teeth are made up of several layers. The outermost layer is enamel, which is strong and protects the tooth. The middle layer is dentin, which has small tubules connecting to the nerves. The innermost layer is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
When enamel is lost, the dentin is exposed to the oral environment, and various stimuli such as cold or hot water, sweet or acidic foods, or biting send signals to the nerves.

Common symptoms of tooth sensitivity include

Sudden sensitivity when drinking cold or hot water, or eating sweet/acidic foods.
Sensitivity when biting or chewing hard foods.
A short, sharp pain in the tooth or gum margin, usually sudden and quickly resolved.
Sensitivity when brushing or flossing.
Sometimes, tooth sensitivity may persist when there is tooth wear or exposed tooth roots.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the dentin layer of the tooth, either around the crown or root, is exposed, allowing the nerves within the tooth to be stimulated by various things such as hot or cold temperatures from food and drinks, or certain behaviors. The following are causes and triggers of tooth sensitivity:

1. Hot or cold food or drinks

When a tooth is suddenly exposed to heat or cold, the tiny tubules in the dentin send signals to stimulate the nerves inside, causing immediate pain or sensitivity.

2. Sweet or acidic foods

Sugar or acids in food can erode the enamel and stimulate the nerves within the dentin, causing sensitivity, especially in areas of worn or decayed teeth.

3. Cold air or drafts

Cold air can directly stimulate the dentin, causing sensitivity when breathing or being in strong winds.

4. Direct contact of the tooth with a hard object

Biteing or chewing hard objects stimulates the nerves in the tooth, causing temporary pain.

5. Brushing or flossing too hard

Brushing too hard can thin the enamel or cause gum recession. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitivity.

6. Enamel erosion

Tooth erosion from grinding or brushing too hard thins the enamel layer and exposes the dentin, making the tooth more sensitive to stimuli.

7. Gum recession

When the gums recede, the tooth roots become exposed and more susceptible to stimuli, causing tooth sensitivity, especially in the root area.

8. Tooth decay or erosion

Tooth decay or erosion damages the protective layer, exposing the dentin and nerves, causing sensitivity.

9. Cracked or fractured tooth

Cracks or fractures in a tooth can allow stimuli to reach the dentin and nerves, causing sudden pain.

10. Certain fillings or dental procedures

Fillings, crowns, or certain dental treatments may temporarily stimulate the nerves within the tooth, causing sensitivity.

11. Tartar buildup or gingivitis

Tartar or gingivitis cause gum recession, exposing part of the tooth root and making it sensitive to stimuli such as heat and cold.

12. Use of teeth whitening products

During tooth whitening, the bleaching agent penetrates the dentin tubules to remove substances that cause yellowing and can stimulate nerves within the tooth, causing temporary sensitivity. This sensitivity gradually improves.

When Should You See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity?

Some types of tooth sensitivity may indicate a more serious dental problem and warrant immediate dental attention, such as:
Chronic tooth sensitivity lasting 1-2 weeks may indicate an underlying problem like cavity or dentin inflammation.
Increasingly severe sensitivity may indicate advanced cavity or nerve inflammation.
Sensitive, localized sensitivity that worsens may be due to a cracked tooth, fracture, or deep cavity.
Sensitiveness accompanied by swelling, redness, or bleeding gums may indicate gingivitis or an infection in the gums and teeth.
Poles or discoloration of the tooth are signs of severe cavity or dentin necrosis and require immediate dental attention.

10 Easy Ways to Treat Tooth Sensitivity at Home

Tooth sensitivity can be treated with lifestyle changes and specialized products, but if the symptoms are severe or chronic, consult a dentist.

Use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. This type of toothpaste helps protect tooth enamel and reduces nerve stimulation.
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to minimize enamel erosion and prevent gum recession.
Avoid foods and drinks that trigger sensitivity, such as cold, hot, sweet, or highly acidic foods.
Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth tightly to reduce the risk of tooth wear or cracking.
Avoid temporary tooth whitening treatments, as the bleaching agents may irritate the nerves in the tooth enamel.
Choose a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent irritation and reduce tooth sensitivity.
Maintain consistent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss gently.
Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Wait 30-60 minutes to allow the enamel exposed to the acid to recover from the immediate friction.
Drink plenty of water to help rinse away acid and food particles, reducing tooth irritation.
Use straws carefully to minimize direct contact between water and other beverages and your front teeth.

How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity by a Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity doesn't improve or is chronic after self-care, you should see a dentist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

1. Desensitizing Agents

A dentist will apply a desensitizing agent to exposed dentin to reduce nerve stimulation. This is usually temporary but provides immediate relief from sensitivity. It's suitable for mild or early-stage sensitivity.

2. Fluoride Coatings

Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces nerve sensitivity within the tooth. The dentist will apply it as a gel to the tooth, which helps prevent cavities and reduces sensitivity in the long term.

3. Fillings or Stain Removal

In cases of cavities, erosion, or small cracks, the dentist will fill the tooth with a filling material to seal the exposed dentin, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further damage. This treatment is usually quick and lasts for several years.

4. Gum Treatment and Scaling

When gums recede or tartar buildup occurs, the tooth root may be exposed, causing sensitivity. The dentist will scal, clean the root canal, and treat gingivitis. This helps reduce the root's exposure to stimuli and reduces sensitivity.

5. Make a dental crown

In cases of severe tooth wear, cracks, or deep fractures, a crown protects the tooth structure and nerves from stimuli and helps restore normal chewing function. Crowns are usually made from ceramic or metal-ceramic materials.

6. Root Canal Treatment (Only if necessary)

If the tooth nerve is inflamed or the tooth is dead, root canal treatment removes the infected tooth structure and nerves, reducing pain and preventing the spread of infection. The tooth can still be used normally. A crown should be considered after root canal treatment.

How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Preventing tooth sensitivity involves proper dental and gum care, adjusting eating habits, and using appropriate oral care products. Here's how:

Brush your teeth correctly: Brush twice a day with moderate pressure. Avoid excessive force to minimize enamel erosion and gum recession.
Use a desensitizing toothpaste regularly: This helps reduce sensitivity to nerve stimuli within the teeth, such as heat, cold, or sweets.
Regular fluoride treatments: These strengthen enamel, prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks: This reduces enamel erosion and dentin irritation.
Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods: Wait 30-60 minutes to allow the enamel exposed to acid to reduce friction.
Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth: This reduces the risk of tooth wear or cracking and prevents exposure of the dentin.
Choose a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid irritating teeth and gums.
Maintain consistent oral hygiene: Brush and floss correctly to reduce plaque and bacteria buildup.
Get a dental checkup every 6 months. Regular checkups and teeth cleaning help detect problems in their early stages and prevent tooth sensitivity in the long term.

Can tooth sensitivity be completely cured?

Tooth sensitivity can be relieved and controlled, but in some cases, it may not disappear completely. Depending on the cause, such as tooth wear, decay, or receding gums, treatment as recommended by your dentist, along with lifestyle changes and the use of desensitizing toothpaste, can significantly reduce symptoms. However, worn teeth or exposed roots may still be sensitive to certain stimuli.

Are there medications for tooth sensitivity?

Yes, there are specific products and toothpastes that help reduce tooth sensitivity, such as desensitizing toothpaste, gentle mouthwash, or fluoride treatments that protect dentin and reduce nerve stimulation. However, these only relieve symptoms; they don't directly treat the underlying cause.

Why do I experience tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold things?

When a tooth is stimulated by heat or cold, tiny tubules in the dentin send signals to the nerves in the tooth, causing immediate pain or sensitivity. If the enamel is thin, exposing the dentin or root, the nerves become more sensitive, resulting in immediate sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks.

Treating Tooth Sensitivity at Vibhavadi Hospital

If you experience chronic tooth sensitivity or cannot alleviate it with self-care, Vibhavadi Hospital offers dental services to accurately diagnose the cause of your sensitivity, such as cavities, tooth wear, open root canals, or receding gums. We provide personalized treatments, including topical desensitizing agents, fluoride treatments, fillings, crowns, or root canal treatment as needed. We also offer advice on preventing and managing tooth sensitivity to maintain strong teeth and reduce sensitivity in the long term.

Summary

Tooth sensitivity is common and often caused by various factors, including cavities, tooth wear, or receding gums. While sometimes temporary, frequent or severe sensitivity requires attention and proper dental care, such as gentle brushing, using desensitizing toothpaste, and avoiding trigger foods and drinks. If symptoms persist, consulting a dentist is crucial, as they offer various treatments ranging from topical medications and fluoride treatments to fillings and crowns.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or would like a dental check-up, Vibhavadi Hospital is ready to serve you with expert dentists and state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnosis and treatment. And other oral health problems such as treating tooth sensitivity, fluoride treatments, fillings, crowns, and root canal treatments, along with personalized oral care advice, to help you maintain a beautiful smile and strong teeth for a long time.

FAQ

Tooth sensitivity after a filling is usually due to nerve stimulation during the filling process. Some teeth may be sensitive to heat, cold, or biting initially after filling, which is normal and usually improves within a few days to weeks. If the symptoms are severe or chronic, consult a dentist for a check-up.

Front tooth sensitivity is often caused by tooth wear, cracks, or receding gums, exposing the root or dentin and making the nerves easily stimulated. Additionally, brushing too hard or frequent teeth whitening can make front teeth sensitive to heat, cold, or spicy foods.

Yes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and desensitizing agents can help reduce tooth sensitivity. These products coat the dentin tubules and reduce nerve stimulation, but they only provide temporary relief and do not directly address the underlying cause of the sensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity can be relieved and controlled if the underlying cause is treated, such as with desensitizing agents, fillings, crowns, or root canal treatment combined with lifestyle changes. However, in some cases, worn teeth or exposed roots may still remain sensitive to certain stimuli. It's not always possible to have a complete cure.

Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can thin the enamel and cause gum recession. When the dentin is exposed and the nerves are stimulated, the tooth becomes sensitive to pressure and experiences sensitivity while brushing.

Tooth sensitivity when drinking cold water is normal in people with exposed dentin or thin enamel. However, if it occurs frequently or is severe, it could be a sign of cavities, cracks, or gum problems. You should see a dentist for a checkup to be sure.

Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking difficult and may lead to avoidance of certain foods, affecting happiness and nutrition. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and impact daily life.