Does a sip of cold water, hot coffee or a bite of something sweet cause a sudden sharp sensation in one or more teeth? Tooth sensitivity is common, but it can have several different causes.
Sometimes sensitivity is related to exposed dentin or gum recession. In other cases, it may be a sign of a cavity, cracked tooth, worn filling, enamel wear or another dental problem.
Because treatment depends on the cause, persistent or worsening sensitivity is worth discussing with your dentist rather than simply trying to cover up the symptom.
What Are Sensitive Teeth?
Tooth sensitivity usually refers to discomfort triggered by things such as cold, heat, sweets, acidic foods, brushing or pressure.
Underneath the hard enamel covering the crown of a tooth is a layer called dentin. Dentin contains microscopic channels that communicate with the inner portion of the tooth. When dentin becomes exposed, certain stimuli may reach these channels more easily and trigger sensitivity.
The American Dental Association’s patient resource explains that exposed dentin can result from loss of enamel, loss of the protective covering over the tooth root, or gum recession. You can read more in the ADA’s guide to sensitive teeth.
What Can Cause Sensitive Teeth?
Tooth sensitivity is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. Possible causes include:
- Tooth decay: A cavity can cause sensitivity as decay progresses through the tooth.
- Cracked or fractured teeth: A crack may cause sensitivity or discomfort, especially with chewing or temperature changes.
- Worn or damaged fillings: Changes around an existing restoration can expose sensitive tooth structure.
- Gum recession: When gums recede, part of the tooth root may become exposed.
- Gum disease: Periodontal problems can contribute to recession and root exposure.
- Enamel wear: Acid exposure, tooth wear or aggressive brushing may contribute to loss of protective tooth structure.
- Grinding or clenching: Excessive forces may contribute to wear, cracks or other conditions associated with sensitivity.
Can Gum Recession Cause Sensitivity?
Yes. The root of a tooth is not protected by the same thick enamel that covers the crown. When gum tissue recedes and exposes the root surface, hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods and drinks may trigger sensitivity.
Gum recession can have different causes, so the appropriate treatment depends on why the gumline has changed.
If you also notice bleeding gums, swelling, persistent bad breath or deeper gum pockets, a periodontal evaluation may be appropriate. Learn more about basic cleaning vs. deep cleaning and deep cleaning in Sugar Land.
What Can You Do for Sensitive Teeth at Home?
Some home-care changes may help when sensitivity is related to exposed dentin or minor enamel wear, but they will not fix problems such as cavities or cracked teeth.
You may consider:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brushing gently rather than aggressively scrubbing
- Using fluoride toothpaste
- Trying a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
- Limiting frequent exposure to highly acidic foods and beverages
- Maintaining good brushing and interdental cleaning habits
Desensitizing toothpastes contain ingredients intended to reduce sensitivity over time. The ADA also recommends choosing fluoride toothpaste and notes that products intended for sensitive teeth may contain ingredients that help reduce sensitivity. See the ADA’s toothpaste guidance.
For more daily-care guidance, visit our oral hygiene guide.
Can Brushing Too Hard Make Teeth Sensitive?
Aggressive brushing can contribute to wear or gum recession in some patients. More pressure does not necessarily clean teeth better.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle technique. If you are unsure whether you are brushing too hard, your dentist or hygienist can review your technique and show you areas that need more or less attention.
If you are deciding between toothbrush types, see our guide to electric vs. manual toothbrushes.
Can Acidic Foods and Drinks Affect Tooth Sensitivity?
Frequent exposure to acidic foods and beverages can contribute to enamel erosion over time. As enamel becomes thinner or worn, underlying dentin may become more exposed.
Examples of acidic items include many sodas, sports drinks, citrus products and other acidic beverages or foods.
You do not necessarily need to eliminate every acidic food. Frequency of exposure, overall diet and oral-care habits all matter. Drinking water and limiting repeated acidic exposures throughout the day may be helpful.
Learn more in our article about diet, habits and your smile.
How Can a Dentist Treat Sensitive Teeth?
Treatment depends on what is causing the sensitivity. There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every sensitive tooth.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Desensitizing toothpaste or other home-care recommendations
- Professional fluoride treatment when appropriate
- Treatment of tooth decay with a dental filling
- Repair or replacement of a damaged restoration
- A dental crown when a tooth requires greater protection
- Treatment for gum disease or exposed root surfaces
- Management of grinding or clenching when appropriate
- Root canal treatment in selected cases involving severe or persistent symptoms related to the tooth’s pulp
The important first step is identifying the cause rather than assuming every sensitive tooth needs the same treatment.
What if You Already Have Sensitive Teeth and Want Whitening?
If your teeth are already sensitive, mention this before starting any whitening treatment. Sensitivity should be evaluated so that cavities, cracks, gum recession or other dental problems are not overlooked.
Your dentist can also discuss whether a whitening approach is appropriate based on your current oral health and sensitivity history.
Learn more about teeth whitening in Sugar Land.
When Should You See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity?
Schedule a dental evaluation if sensitivity is persistent, worsening, limited to one specific tooth or interfering with eating, drinking or brushing.
You should also seek evaluation if sensitivity occurs along with:
- Spontaneous or severe tooth pain
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A cracked or broken tooth
- Swelling of the gums or face
- Bleeding or significantly receding gums
- A loose or damaged filling or crown
Severe pain, swelling or another urgent dental problem should be evaluated promptly. Visit our emergency dentist in Sugar Land page for more information about urgent dental concerns.
How Is Tooth Sensitivity Evaluated?
A dental evaluation may include discussing when the sensitivity occurs, examining the teeth and gums, evaluating existing fillings or crowns, checking the bite and taking dental X-rays when clinically indicated.
The goal is to distinguish common dentin sensitivity from conditions such as decay, cracks, gum disease or problems involving the inside of the tooth.
Learn more about dental exams and cleanings in Sugar Land.
Have Sensitive Teeth?
Dr. Sneha Xavier can evaluate your teeth and gums, identify possible causes of sensitivity and discuss treatment options based on your individual findings.
Texan Smile Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 4821 LJ Parkway, Suite 30, Sugar Land, TX 77479.
Schedule an appointment online or contact Texan Smile with questions.
Reviewed by Dr. Sneha Xavier, DMD – Family & Cosmetic Dentist in Sugar Land, TX.
Dental Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice, diagnosis or treatment. Tooth sensitivity can have many causes, and appropriate treatment depends on the diagnosis. Persistent, worsening or severe sensitivity should be evaluated by a licensed dentist.