What is tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a sharp, quick pain when drinking something cold or hot, eating sweets, or even with cold air or brushing. It usually happens when the dentine under the enamel becomes exposed; dentine contains tiny channels that carry sensation to the tooth's nerve. Sensitivity is very common, and most of its causes can be treated.
Causes of tooth sensitivity
- Gum recession: exposes the root, which has no enamel. One of the most common causes.
- Enamel wear: from acidic drinks (fizzy drinks, juices, lemon), hard brushing, or teeth grinding.
- Decay or a broken filling.
- A cracked tooth.
- After some treatments: such as whitening, cleaning or new fillings, usually temporary.
- Gum inflammation and tartar build-up.
Ordinary sensitivity or a nerve problem?
| Ordinary sensitivity | May be a nerve problem | |
|---|---|---|
| How long the pain lasts | Seconds; stops when the trigger stops | Lingers after the trigger is gone |
| Pain on its own | No | Yes, especially at night |
| Where | Usually several teeth | One specific tooth |
| What to do | Treat the cause; sensitivity toothpaste | Prompt check-up; may need root canal treatment |
Read more: tooth nerve pain vs gum pain.
Treating tooth sensitivity
At home
- Sensitivity toothpaste, used regularly for at least two weeks before it takes effect.
- A soft toothbrush and gentle brushing without pressure.
- Cut down on acidic drinks, drink them through a straw, and wait 30 minutes before brushing afterwards.
At the clinic
- Topical fluoride or desensitising agents painted on the tooth.
- A tooth-coloured filling covering the exposed neck of the tooth.
- Gum treatment or a gum graft when recession is the cause, part of gum surgery.
- A night guard if grinding is the cause.
- Treating decay or a crack if present.
Frequently asked questions
Is tooth sensitivity serious?
Usually not, but it signals a problem such as gum recession or enamel wear, and the cause should be found. Persistent or spontaneous pain needs a prompt check-up.
Does sensitivity toothpaste fix the problem for good?
It relieves symptoms effectively, but it doesn't treat causes such as recession or decay. That's why an examination matters.
Why did sensitivity appear after whitening?
Sensitivity after whitening is common and temporary, usually gone within a day or two.
Does sensitivity mean my gums are receding?
Not always, but recession is one of the most common causes. If your teeth look longer, have your gums checked.
Book a check-up to find the cause
At Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh's clinic in Sweifieh, we pinpoint the cause of your sensitivity and treat it, instead of only easing the symptoms. Book an appointment.