How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity

If you have sensitive teeth, brushing them, as well as eating and drinking, may cause short, sharp pain. Tooth sensitivity may occur due to enamel wear or exposure of tooth roots. Sometimes sensitivity is caused by other factors, including caries, a cracked or chipped tooth, a worn filling, or gum disease. The use of whitening products may also lead to tooth sensitivity. If you are concerned about sensitive teeth, contact the dentists at YAREMA DENTAL clinic in Kyiv.

Foods and drinks high in acid can gradually remove small amounts of tooth enamel over time. This is especially true for carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, and wine. When drinking acidic liquids, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. After consuming something acidic, drink water to balance the acid level in your mouth.

What is tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity usually occurs when the underlying layer of the teeth — dentin — becomes exposed. This can happen due to erosion (wear) and gum recession (when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots). Tooth roots, which are not covered by hard enamel, contain thousands of tiny tubules that lead to the center of the tooth (the pulp). These dentinal tubules allow stimuli — such as hot, cold, or sweet foods — to reach the nerve in the tooth, resulting in the pain you feel.

Tooth sensitivity may also be a symptom of other problems, including caries, gum disease, or a cracked tooth.

What causes sudden tooth sensitivity?

Many factors can lead to tooth sensitivity, including:

• brushing too hard: over time, aggressive brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and expose dentin, as well as cause gum recession;
•  gum recession: some people are genetically predisposed to thin gum tissue, while in others it develops due to periodontal disease;
• gum disease: inflamed and diseased gum tissue can cause sensitivity due to the loss of supporting ligaments, exposing the root surface that leads directly to the tooth nerve;
• cracked teeth: chipped or broken teeth can become filled with bacteria that enter the pulp, causing inflammation;
• teeth grinding: grinding or clenching teeth can damage enamel and expose dentin;
•  teeth whitening products: these products often contribute to increased tooth sensitivity;
•  age: tooth sensitivity is most common between the ages of 25 and 30;
• plaque buildup: the presence of plaque on root surfaces can cause sensitivity;
•  use of mouthwash: some over-the-counter mouthwashes contain acids that may increase sensitivity if dentin is exposed;
• acidic foods: frequent consumption of acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea can cause enamel erosion;
• recent dental procedures: teeth may become sensitive after fillings, cleanings, or restorations; this sensitivity is temporary and usually disappears within four to six weeks.

Does tooth sensitivity mean infection?

Not always. Sometimes increased sensitivity indicates tooth erosion or gum recession. However, it may also mean that you have a cracked or infected tooth. Tooth pain associated with infection can be dull and aching or sharp and throbbing. If you have severe tooth sensitivity that does not go away, contact your dentist immediately for further instructions.

Care and treatment

In some cases, tooth sensitivity goes away on its own, especially if it is related to a recent dental procedure such as a filling or root canal treatment. If your sensitivity does not go away, consult your dentist. You may have worn enamel or exposed roots. In such cases, treatment may be required to resolve the issue.

How to treat tooth sensitivity

Treatment depends on the cause. If you experience increased sensitivity or discomfort, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist. The dentist will need to rule out any serious conditions before recommending appropriate treatment.

To reduce the risk of sensitivity, use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands available, and with regular use, you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. You may need to try different brands to find the one that works best for you.

Dental procedures that may help reduce sensitivity include:

• dental bonding to cover exposed root surfaces;
• fluoride varnishes;
• dental sealants;
•  root canal treatment: in severe cases, if the nerve is affected, this procedure may be required to remove damaged nerve tissue and reduce sensitivity.

If the tooth root has lost gum tissue, you may need gum grafting. This surgical procedure helps restore the shape, contours, and size of the gums, improve soft tissue structure, normalize metabolic processes, and reduce tooth mobility. Depending on the type of surgical procedure, various gum problems can be addressed, including exposed roots and increased sensitivity.

How to prevent tooth sensitivity

•  maintain good oral hygiene: follow proper brushing and flossing techniques and use a soft-bristled toothbrush;
•  monitor your diet: frequent consumption of acidic foods can gradually dissolve enamel and expose dentin;
•  avoid teeth grinding: if you grind your teeth, use a night guard;
•  visit your dentist regularly: attend regular professional check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments.

Several different factors can cause tooth sensitivity, including worn enamel, exposed roots, caries, cracks, and even recent dental procedures. Whether you need treatment depends on the cause. Mild sensitivity can often be managed with desensitizing toothpaste and proper oral hygiene. Severe sensitivity caused by gum recession, caries, or cracks may require treatment. A dentist can help determine the cause and recommend the appropriate solution.

This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.