Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Dentist
What Does Tooth Sensitivity Feel Like?
Sensitive teeth typically cause a sudden, short, sharp pain when your teeth come into contact with:
- Hot food or drinks
- Cold food or drinks
- Sweet foods
- Acidic foods and beverages
- Cold air
- Brushing or flossing
The discomfort may affect one tooth, several teeth or an entire area of your mouth.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Generally, sensitive teeth occur when the dentine (the soft inner layer of your tooth located underneath the hard enamel ‘shell’) becomes exposed due to the loss of its enamel protection allowing hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods to stimulate the nerve centre of the tooth causing pain and sensitivity.
A dental examination can help identify the underlying cause of your sensitivity and determine the most appropriate treatment to protect your teeth and improve your comfort.
Some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth are discussed below:
Gum Recession
Gum recession is a very common condition and may result from gum disease, brushing too aggressively, teeth clenching or grinding, or the regular use of highly abrasive whitening toothpastes. In some cases, ongoing tooth wear and sensitivity may also be linked to underlying health conditions such as acid reflux, where stomach acids gradually erode the tooth enamel.
Gum Disease
Gum Disease is a bacterial infection that causes deterioration of the gums and underlying bone that supports your teeth. As the condition progresses, one thing that can happen is that the gums can shrink away from the teeth, exposing the underlying sensitive dentine and root of the tooth.
Tooth Decay
A cavity can allow bacteria to reach deeper layers of the tooth, resulting in sensitivity that may gradually become more painful.
A cavity or “hole” in a tooth is caused by ‘Caries’ and is due to bacteria breaking down sugars and turning them into acid, damaging the underlying tooth structure. As the cavity gets bigger and reaches the deeper layers of the tooth, it can result in sensitivity that may gradually become more painful.
If decay is detected early, it can often be treated with a simple restoration.
If decay is detected early (ideally before it even becomes sensitive!), it can often be treated with a simple restoration, saving you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Worn Tooth Enamel
Everyday wear, aggressive brushing or grinding your teeth (Bruxism) can gradually wear away enamel, making teeth more sensitive.
Occlusal splints can be a very effective treatment for Bruxism (teeth grinding) and/or pain associated with TMD (Temporomandibular joint dysfunction). Many people are oblivious to the fact they grind their teeth, it can happen during sleep or unconsciously while awake. That’s why a dental examination is essential to determine if any signs of Bruxism are present, if any damage has already occurred and what can be done to fix it.
Cracked or Damaged Teeth
Hairline cracks or fractures in teeth may not always be visible to the naked eye but can be a serious issue and cause pain when biting or when drinking cold fluids. Sometimes these cracks are even painless but are extremely dangerous if left unchecked. The cracks can become a gateway for bacteria leading to infection of the nerve (or “pulp”) of the tooth. Other times, if the tooth has a fracture that hasn’t been diagnosed, and it breaks large amounts of dentine or even the nerve of the tooth can become exposed causing severe pain.
Prompt assessment helps determine whether the tooth can be restored before further damage occurs. Often picking up these things early can mean a more conservative treatment option and a better prognosis for the tooth.
Can Tooth Sensitivity Be Prevented?
Many causes of sensitivity are preventable through good oral health habits.
- Brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Reducing acids in your diet (e.g. soft drink, energy drinks, lemon juice in water!)
- Cleaning between your teeth every day
- Attending regular dental examinations and professional cleans
- Wearing an occlusal splint if you grind your teeth
- Seeking advice early if sensitivity develops rather than waiting for it to worsen
Regular preventive dental care allows small problems to be identified before they become more complex.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Some types of sensitivity will not improve with sensitive toothpastes or resolve over time. Sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious issue going on. Single tooth sensitivity tends to be associated with more serious conditions. It may start as mild sensitivity but usually pain increases in intensity over time as the condition worsens.
Immediate treatment may be required by your dentist to not only resolve the sensitivity or pain, but to reduce the risk of complications or more extensive treatment.
If your teeth have become increasingly sensitive or the pain isn’t improving, it’s important to have your teeth assessed by a professional dentist. Early diagnosis may allow for simpler treatment and help prevent further damage.
Medland has been caring for Brisbane families since 1959, combining excellence in dentistry with exceptional patient care.
Our friendly team can assess the cause of your sensitivity and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.
Book an appointment today and let us help you smile comfortably again.