Tooth sensitivity – what is the cause of so much discomfort?

30th October 2024

Tooth sensitivity is a very common problem that is characterized by discomfort in the teeth when in contact with certain foods and temperatures.

The pain is characterized by often being sharp and sudden, but it is over a short period of time, however, it can be a temporary or chronic problem, and it can affect one tooth, several teeth, or all teeth.

It can be caused by different causes, but most cases of sensitive teeth are easily treated with a change in eating habits.

The factors that can lead to tooth sensitivity most commonly are:

hot food and drinks;
cold food and drinks;
cold air;
sweet foods and drinks;
acidic foods and drinks.

Causes of tooth sensitivity?

In healthy teeth, the enamel layer protects an underlying layer called dentin, which is more sensitive to the factors responsible for tooth sensitivity. The roots of the teeth are protected by the gums and bone.

When there is enamel wear or if there is gum loss, the dentin is exposed to the factors mentioned above and causing tooth sensitivity. Because dentin is connected to the nerve that is responsible for triggering pain in sensitive teeth.

Sensitive teeth are typically the result of wear and tear on tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. Sometimes dental discomfort is caused by other factors, such as a cavity, a cracked or chipped tooth, a worn filling, or gum disease.

Dentin is made up of thousands of microscopic tubules, which are called dentin tubules that when in contact with hot, cold, acidic or sugary substances will reach the nerves of the teeth and cause pain.

Some factors that can contribute to tooth sensitivity are:

Excessive force used during tooth brushing or brushes with very hard bristles. These factors can lead to enamel wear, causing dentin to be exposed or causing gum recession.
People suffering from periodontal disease may suffer from tooth sensitivity because this disease leads to loss of gum and bone causing dentin to be exposed.
The presence of gingivitis (gingival inflammation) can also lead to exposure of the tooth root and consequently tooth sensitivity.
Fractured or cracked teeth can cause inflammation of the nerve zone of the teeth that we call dental pulp and cause sensitivity.
Some mouthwashes, foods or drinks are acidic and can lead to enamel erosion exposing the dentin tubules consequently leading to tooth sensitivity.
After oral hygiene done in the clinic, procedures for placing ceramic crowns or ceramic veneers or even dental restorations can lead to the appearance of tooth sensitivity that usually disappears after four to six weeks.

Tooth sensitivity after treatment with ceramics, veneers, or dental restorations

Some people report the presence of tooth sensitivity after a cavity treatment, application of ceramic veneers or ceramic crowns.

Tooth decay, the necessary wear that is made on the teeth when placing ceramics or the process of cementing the ceramics can lead to irritation of the dental pulp leading to the presence of tooth sensitivity that is temporary.

This sensitivity reduces substantially over the period of 4 to 6 weeks, however it can take up to 3 months for all sensitivity to disappear.

Tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening

Tooth whitening leads in some cases to the presence of tooth sensitivity temporarily, especially laser tooth whitening which, because it has faster and more effective aesthetic results, we need higher concentrations of the whitening product and which is activated through the laser.

Approximately 10% of patients may have moderate tenderness, and 4% of patients may have severe tenderness for one to two weeks.

Patients who experience receding gums are more likely to suffer from tooth sensitivity during teeth whitening treatment.

This sensitivity is due to the product that is applied to the teeth to make the whitening lead to dehydration of the teeth, especially at the level of the dentin tubules and consequently tooth sensitivity. After the period necessary for the rehydration of the teeth, this sensitivity will decrease in a period that can go from 1 to 3 days and until it disappears completely it can take 1 to 2 weeks.

After receiving a teeth whitening treatment, avoid hot or cold foods for a day or two. By following this procedure, you will not be exposed to undue tooth sensitivity. It is also recommended to brush your teeth carefully and use warm water when brushing.

Treatment of sensitive teeth

There are several types of treatment available and each professional must adapt the treatment to the type of sensitivity of each patient. Because there is not just one treatment option that is effective for all cases.

An accurate diagnosis of the reason for sensitivity is essential for treatment to be effective.

If the tooth sensitivity is mild, then it can be treated with over-the-counter dental products such as mouthwashes (alcohol-free) or toothpastes specific for sensitivity.

The use of a soft toothbrush and using moderate force when brushing are important factors in reducing enamel wear and gum recession and consequently relieving tooth sensitivity.

If you need a more complex treatment, you can turn to a professional who will apply a fluoride gel or desensitizing agents that will strengthen the enamel and protect the teeth.

Fluoride Treatments

In 2014, the FDA (American Dental Federation) approved diaminosilver fluoride to treat tooth sensitivity. The topical application of this product is very much used in Asia and Europe. Studies have been conducted and it has been found that patients with tooth sensitivity who underwent topical application of diaminosilver fluride had significant levels of reduced tooth sensitivity.