Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective enamel on teeth wears down or when gums recede, exposing the softer dentin layer or tooth roots. This can be caused by brushing too hard, gum disease, tooth decay, cracked teeth, or grinding your teeth.

When the dentin or tooth roots are exposed, hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can trigger discomfort or pain. This happens because these substances reach the nerves in your teeth through tiny tubules in the dentin.

Yes, brushing too hard can wear away enamel and cause gum recession, both of which can lead to tooth sensitivity. It’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes when brushing.

It’s normal to experience tooth sensitivity after dental work like fillings, crowns, or cleanings. This usually lasts for a few days to a week, but if it persists beyond that, contact your dentist for further evaluation.

Tooth sensitivity can be an early warning sign of more serious dental issues, but it is not always indicative of a major problem. It depends on the underlying cause of the sensitivity. While some cases of tooth sensitivity are mild and temporary—such as sensitivity following teeth whitening or a dental cleaning—others can point to more significant issues that require prompt attention.

Potential Serious Causes:

1. Tooth Decay: One of the most common causes of sensitivity is tooth decay or cavities. As enamel wears away, the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity. If left untreated, decay can worsen, potentially leading to infections or abscesses.
2. Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Gum disease can cause gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. This can result in tooth sensitivity as well as more severe complications like tooth loss or bone damage. Periodontitis is a serious condition that needs to be treated to prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
3. Cracked or Damaged Teeth: Cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, causing sharp sensitivity. Cracks can deepen over time, potentially requiring a crown, root canal, or even tooth extraction if the damage is severe.
4. Enamel Erosion: Erosion of enamel can be caused by acidic foods and drinks, grinding your teeth (bruxism), or using overly abrasive toothpastes. When enamel erodes, it cannot regenerate, leaving the dentin exposed and increasing sensitivity. Advanced enamel erosion can make teeth more vulnerable to decay and damage.
5. Tooth Infection or Abscess: Infections that reach the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth) can cause severe pain and sensitivity, especially to pressure or temperature changes. These infections, often signaled by sensitivity, may require root canal treatment to save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.

When to See a Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity is persistent, worsens over time, or is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, pain, or discoloration, it’s important to see a dentist. They can identify the cause of the sensitivity and recommend appropriate treatment. Addressing issues early, such as decay or gum disease, can prevent more extensive (and expensive) dental treatments down the road.

In summary, while not all cases of tooth sensitivity are serious, it is important to monitor the symptoms. Sensitivity can be a sign of early-stage dental problems, and catching these problems early can make a big difference in maintaining oral health.