Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Name: The House of Mouth
Brand: The House of Mouth
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Sensitive teeth can hit at any time and can be a real pain. This article provides a full understanding as to why you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity and what you can do about it.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Are you someone who cringes at the thought of biting into ice cream, sipping on hot tea, or drinking an icy cold beverage? This may be due to experiencing a short, sharp sensation when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, commonly known as sensitive teeth.

You are not alone, as studies have shown that 44% of Australian households have at least one person who suffers from sensitive teeth or gums. This is a common and painful condition that can be caused by various factors and can vary in severity among individuals.

The good news is that you don’t have to suffer unnecessarily, as there are several tips to help you better manage, prevent, or control your tooth sensitivity. In this article, we will discuss the causes of tooth sensitivity, tips for controlling it, and the best products to manage this condition.

Sensitive Teeth Causes

To better understand why teeth become sensitive, let’s start with the basics of tooth anatomy. Teeth are made up of an outer protective layer called enamel. Underneath the enamel is a specialised mineral called dentin, which completely covers or surrounds the pulp of your teeth. The pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic elements, which keep your teeth “alive” and allow you to experience hot and cold sensations through your teeth.

When the enamel layer becomes worn, thinned, or damaged, it exposes areas that are close to the pulp or nerves of your teeth. Therefore, when you consume something that is overly hot or cold, this exposed area stimulates the nerve ending and can result in a short, sharp, and uncomfortable sensation of pain.

The specific causes of Sensitive vary greatly between individuals and in many cases can be attributed to one or more of the following:

Toothbrushing Abrasion – using a hard bristled toothbrush or hard grip whilst brushing aggressively causes the tooth wear and gum recession.

Dental Erosion – the consumption of acidic foods and drinks or medical conditions including reflux, GERD and bulimia lead to tooth damage. Read more about Dental Erosion in our article here.

Dental Decay – ‘holes’ otherwise known as dental decay or caries which has progressed through the enamel to the dentine layer (or further)

Worn and Leaky Fillings – restorations may wear or break and this can disrupt the seal between the natural tooth and filling material

Gum Recession – resulting in exposed root surfaces

Grinding and Bruxism – clenching and grinding during the day and/or night can result in tooth wear, exposing the dentinal layer

Post Treatment Sensitivity – some dental treatments can cause temporary sensitivity, these may include fillings, tooth whitening, crown and bridge procedures.

Sensitive Teeth and Teeth Whitening

Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, particularly when using peroxide-based gels. The whitening process causes tiny tooth porosities to open, allowing the teeth to lighten in colour. However, this can result in sensitivity for some users, but not everyone.

The good news is that sensitivity related to teeth whitening is temporary and typically lasts for about 24-48 hours after each treatment. If you are experiencing sensitivity after teeth whitening, there are several professional tips you can use to manage it effectively, which you can learn more about in our article here.

Tips for Dealing with Sensitive Teeth

As there are many factors which cause tooth sensitivity it is important to have a discussion with a dental professional to isolate the root cause (no pun intended). From this point and depending on your individual circumstances several options may be considered which may include:

Desensitising Products: The use of a home product designed to control sensitivity can help manage temporary or ongoing sensitivity issues related to diet, toothbrushing abrasion, dental erosion, medical conditions, gum recession and post treatment sensitivity. These can include toothpastes, creams and gels. See our best teeth sensitivity product recommendations below.
Fluoride Application: Your dental professional may apply a high concentrated fluoride product to help remineralise and desensitise your teeth. This is commonly used in areas of root recession, toothbrushing abrasion or sensitivity experienced from dental erosion.
Bonding Procedures: In some cases, applying a bonding resin to sensitive root surfaces can help to reduce or eliminate sensitivity from receding gums, dental erosion and severe toothbrushing abrasion.
Dental Treatments: Other dental treatments may be recommended including root canal treatment, dental fillings, or surgical gum grafts to best eliminate sensitivity concerns.

Generally speaking, following the tips below can help prevent the issues which contribute to sensitive teeth from the outset:

Use a manual toothbrush or power brush replacement head with a soft bristles

Avoid scrubbing or aggressively brushing, rather use gentle, circular stroke

Limit the consumption of overly acidic foods and drinks including carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, juices, yoghurts, wine, and coffee

Drink or rinse with water after meals and snacks to help neutralise your mouth

Avoid abrasive toothpastes including charcoal or highly gritty pastes which can damage the enamel

If you grind your teeth, talk to you dentist about your options to help best manage this

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

While some people use home remedies to relieve sensitive teeth, we strongly advise caution and recommend determining the underlying cause before relying on DIY or home remedies. The causative factor may be more serious than what can be treated with simple solutions, so it’s essential to identify the root cause of the sensitivity before attempting any home remedies. Some home remedies for sensitive teeth include using:

Green Tea
Honey and Warm Water
Capsaicin and Turmeric
Saltwater Rinses
Vanilla Extract
Clove or Coconut Oils

Products to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

The House of Mouth offers a range of tooth sensitivity products which are clinically proven to manage and alleviate the symptoms of sensitive teeth. It is important to note that consistency is key. Using a product as part of your regular oral hygiene routine will ensure you achieve ongoing and reliable relief. Spontaneous or sporadic use will too often result in mediocre or unnoticeable relief.

Toothpastes for Sensitive Teeth

Can be easily integrated into your daily routine as your everyday toothpaste. These toothpastes contain specific ingredients to reduce sensitive teeth symptoms and depending on the brand may contain additional ingredients to help strengthen and whiten your teeth at the same time.

Cremes for Sensitive Teeth

Usually applied directly after brushing, flossing and/or rinsing these products work by restoring key minerals found in your teeth resulting in sensitivity relief and tooth remineralisation. Usually, the main ingredients are milk based with lactose free options for those with allergies or related sensitivities.

Gels for Sensitive Teeth

These products are designed to relieve both tooth and gum sensitivity and are also commonly used after in office or home whitening procedures. They can either be applied directly to the teeth and gums with your finger, toothbrush or placed in your whitening trays and worn for the recommended period.

Mouthwashes for Sensitive Teeth

There are a variety of mouthwashes recommended for people who suffer from sensitive teeth. These are usually everyday mouthwashes which contain higher amounts of fluoride or other products designed to remineralise and desensitise the teeth.

Toothbrushes for Sensitive Teeth

If you already suffer from sensitive teeth, using a soft or super soft bristled toothbrush is important and can make all the difference. Combining this with several products above can provide long lasting relief from tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Sensitivity Advice and Assistance

Do you have questions about the products recommended to you by your Dental Professional or need help selecting a tooth sensitivity product suited to your individual needs? One of our Dental Professionals will be more than happy to help – contact us today. Remember, it is always recommended to see a Dental or Health Professional should your tooth sensitivity cause you significant discomfort or has been an ongoing issue for some time.