There’s nothing worse than the shooting pain you get when you bite down on a piece of hard candy, take a swig of something too cold or too hot, or chew into something a little too sticky for your delicate teeth. Let’s face it—sensitive teeth are no fun.  

If you’re stuck with teeth that have to be babied, you probably want to know why it’s happening and what can be done. The truth is, while sensitive teeth can occur for many different reasons, it’s often the result of enamel loss. This can be due to poor dental hygiene, brushing too hard, or even gum disease. Your dentist is well-equipped to diagnose the cause of your tooth sensitivity, how to treat it, and how to ensure it never comes back. 

In this article we’ll discuss: 

• Understanding the cause of sensitive teeth 
• Diagnosing sensitive teeth 
• Preventing sensitive teeth 
• Treatments for sensitive teeth 

Tooth sensitivity isn’t something that you should just get used to. Keep reading to learn why it occurs and what you can do about it. 

What Causes Sensitive Teeth? 

Sensitive teeth are a common occurrence. Many people simply have less enamel naturally, and therefore more sensitive teeth than most. But if you experience acute pain when eating or drinking something cold, it’s likely that your enamel isn’t just naturally thin; it’s probably worn away over time.  

What causes this gradual wearing away of the enamel? There are several possible causes. Gradual enamel loss can be the result of one or more of these things: 

• Brushing with hard bristles 

• Eating and drinking acidic foods and liquids 
• Brushing your teeth too hard 
• Gum recession due to gum disease 
• Grinding your teeth 
• Broken or chipped teeth 

You may even undergo enamel loss due to certain medical conditions.  For example, gastroesophageal reflux (known as GERD) is when stomach acids come up through the esophagus. This erodes your enamel over time, resulting in increased sensitivity. Frequent vomiting from being sick or from eating disorders such as bulimia will also erode the enamel. 

Sensitivity may also stem from recent or worn-down dental work. New fillings, crowns, and bleaching may result in heightened teeth sensitivity. It is important to note that these effects are often limited to the tooth or teeth that were worked on and should be a temporary side effect. On the other hand, worn-down dental work can expose an inner layer of the tooth known as the dentin, causing high levels of sensitivity. 

Whatever the cause of your sensitivity, your best option is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will be able to determine the cause as well as develop a treatment plan to help get your teeth strong and resilient once more.  

Diagnosing Sensitive Teeth 

Tooth sensitivity can manifest itself in different ways. It often makes everyday occurrences such as eating and drinking difficult. In extreme cases, even breathing in cold or hot air can cause pain. For some, the pain may seem random with no pattern or noticeable cause. Others may feel it when their teeth come into contact with hot or cold substances. 

People who experience teeth sensitivity can also differ on where the pain is located. While some may experience pain in multiple teeth in the top or bottom of their mouth (or both), others may only experience pain in one tooth.  

There can also be differences in the amount of pain experienced. For some, the pain can be sharp and fast while others may only experience a mild, dull ache. Pain from your tooth sensitivity can also be caused by chewing or biting down rather than from coming into contact with hot or cold substances. 

Keep track of your symptoms before talking to your dentist about teeth sensitivity, since your symptoms will be essential for narrowing down the cause of your sensitivity. While enamel erosion is the common culprit for tooth sensitivity, problems such as receding gums, cracked teeth, and those requiring root canals may also be to blame. Your dentist will be able to help you more the more you can tell them about the pain you’ve been experiencing.  

Preventing Sensitive Teeth 

One of the best things you can do for your teeth is to prevent them from becoming sensitive to begin with. Since enamel erosion is what primarily causes tooth sensitivity, enamel is what needs the most protection. To avoid enamel erosion: 

• Brush gently 
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush 
• Eat a healthy diet with calcium and protein 
• Avoid acidic foods and beverages 

Another key element in avoiding sensitive teeth is keeping your gums healthy. Our gums naturally begin to recede after we turn 40. When our gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed. These roots don’t have enamel like the top parts of your teeth and are more prone to sensitivity. 

Sometimes, our gums begin to recede due to gum disease. This recession occurs when tartar buildup causes your gums to pull back, exposing the roots of your teeth and causing sensitivity. 

Your best bet for prevention is to follow a good oral health regimen. This includes: 

• Brushing for two minutes, twice per day 
• Flossing at least once per day, preferably after eating 
• Seeing your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings 

By following these tips, you will be in the right position to catch small problems before they become big ones, and you will be doing everything you can to prevent sensitive teeth. 

Treatments for Sensitive Teeth 

If you’ve already developed sensitive teeth, there are certain things you and your dentist can do to manage pain. You can buy toothpastes and mouthwashes specifically made for sensitive teeth at your local drug store. Your dentist may also recommend trying fluoride gel to use at home to help alleviate your symptoms.  

Cavities sometimes leave exposed roots, which would cause sensitivity. If that’s your scenario, your dentist may use fillings to cover the roots and prevent their exposure. Another solution may be dental sealants. This is a thin coating for your teeth which acts as a protective shield against tooth decay. Your dentist will apply the sealant to prevent decay and sensitivity. 

Some people have worn down enamel by grinding their teeth, especially at night. This is a condition known as bruxism. If that’s you, your dentist may recommend a mouthguard to prevent this from causing problems. 

Severe cases of sensitivity may require a root canal to fix the problem. While no one wants a root canal, it may be the only solution for some people. If anything, consider this a reason to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly. Ignoring dental problems will only make them worse, so it’s best to address them as soon as possible. Scheduling regular teeth cleanings is a simple way to safeguard your oral health and protect yourself from developing teeth sensitivity. 

If you have questions about how best to care for your sensitive teeth or avoid developing sensitivity in the first place, speak to your dentist today.