Sensitive Teeth? Here’s Why It Hurts and What Helps

That Sudden Jolt When You Sip Something Cold? Let’s Talk Tooth Sensitivity

Ever bite into ice cream and feel more pain than pleasure? Or maybe hot coffee hits a nerve a little too literally. If brushing, flossing, or even breathing in cold air sometimes makes you wince, you might be dealing with sensitive teeth, and you’re not alone.

Tooth sensitivity isn’t just an annoyance. It can sneak up on you during daily routines and slowly chip away at your comfort. The good news? It’s not something you have to live with. But first, it helps to understand where it comes from.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason. Sensitivity can be triggered by a number of underlying issues, including:

• Tooth decay or cavities
• Worn enamel or exposed roots
• Receding gums
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Old or worn-out fillings
• Gum disease

Healthy teeth have a protective outer layer of enamel that shields the part of the tooth above the gum line. Below the gum line, there’s a layer called cementum that guards the root. But underneath both layers lies dentin, a softer, more porous tissue that contains tiny tubes leading straight to the nerves.

Once enamel or cementum wears down or is damaged, those tubes can send hot, cold, or even sweet sensations straight to the nerve. And that’s when you feel that sharp, zinging pain.

So, What Can You Do About It?

The first step is getting to the root of the problem. Treatment depends on what's causing the sensitivity, but here are a few common solutions your dentist might recommend:

Desensitizing toothpaste
These contain compounds that block those nerve signals. It might take a few uses, but many patients find solid relief with the right one.

Fluoride treatments
Applied in-office, fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces how much sensation can reach your nerves.

Crowns, bonding, or inlays
These restore worn or damaged areas and help seal off sensitive spots.

Gum grafts
If your gums have receded, exposing the roots, a graft can protect those areas and reduce pain.

Root canal treatment
In more severe or persistent cases, this option can stop sensitivity at the source by removing the irritated nerve altogether.

Prevention Starts at Home

Tooth sensitivity isn’t always preventable, but good habits go a long way. Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using low-abrasion toothpaste, and keeping up with regular cleanings can help prevent enamel wear and gum recession.

If you’re unsure about your routine or wondering if your toothbrush might be doing more harm than good, just ask. We’re happy to walk you through what works best for your specific smile.

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Sensitive Teeth Shouldn’t Be a Daily Disruption

If sensitivity has started interfering with your meals or routines, don’t just grit your teeth and push through it. Relief might be easier than you think. Call us or book online to talk through your options. We’ll help make everyday bites and sips feel normal again.