Sensitive teeth: A guide to gentle yet effective care for pain-sensitive teeth

Common causes for sensitive teeth

A sensitive tooth reacts to cold and other external influences more strongly. It is usually indicated by a lightning-like pain, which moves into the jaw area. Sensitive teeth can have different causes, and with millions affected^1,2, it’s important to know the cause of your sensitive teeth:

• Gum recession. Caused most commonly by gum disease but also overly aggressive brushing and even genetics,³ gum recession is not something to be taken lightly or ignored. When the gums have receded and the tooth necks are exposed, stimuli such as temperature fluctuations are more easily registered by the "nerve" (piulpa). This is especially common if the protective enamel is also damaged.
• Tooth erosion. While minor tooth wear is something that naturally happens over time,⁴ the wearing down of the surface of your tooth especially through excessive brushing or poor diet can increase the likelihood of tooth sensitivity. The reduction of enamel leading to tooth neck exposure to damage resulting in cavities and tooth erosion is a major cause of sensitive teeth. 
• Periodontitis. Periodontitis is the inflammation of the periodontium which is the area made up of the gums, root element, periodontal membrane, and jawbone. This inflammation is caused by bacterial plaque. Following the inflammation, the gums recede, exposing the sensitive tooth necks.   

In addition to the above-mentioned reasons, there are several risk factors that contribute to your teeth becoming more sensitive over time. Further causes of pain-sensitive teeth are: 

• Using an incorrect tooth-brushing technique. Did you know that by doing this you could actually be supporting the abrasion of enamel? Both brushing your teeth horizontally, instead brushing from top to bottom, and pressing too hard on your teeth while brushing, encourages gum recession and abrasion of enamel. 
• Teeth grinding. Teeth grinding causes the protective enamel to break down and exposes the dentin. This is particularly common in children, as they are more often affected by teeth grinding and consequently suffer from pain-sensitive teeth.⁵ 
• Insufficient oral hygiene. If you don’t take care of your teeth and mouth regularly and thoroughly, you’re risking several illnesses, such as periodontitis and caries.⁶ These in turn can increase the development of sensitive teeth.³
• Mediocre diet. You may not realize it, but your food habits can have a lasting impact on your dental health including leading to tooth sensitivity. Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can lead to tooth erosion, which in turn leads to hot and cold-sensitive teeth.⁷