6 Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity You Shouldn’t Ignore

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity refers to a sharp, sudden, or lingering pain that occurs when teeth are exposed to external stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. This uncomfortable sensation happens when the dentin—the inner layer of the tooth—is exposed or overstimulated.

The dentin is normally protected by enamel (on the crown of the tooth) and cementum (on the root surface). Within the dentin are tiny fluid-filled channels called dentinal tubules, which run from the nerve center of the tooth to the outer surface.

According to the hydrodynamic theory, when external forces (such as temperature changes, pressure, or acidity) affect the dentinal fluid, they cause pressure shifts inside the tubules. These signals are transmitted to the pulp—where the nerves are located—leading to pain.

Below are six of the most common reasons why your teeth may be sensitive and how to address them effectively.

1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Tooth decay is the most frequent cause of tooth sensitivity. When cavities form, they break down the enamel and expose the dentin underneath. As a result, hot or cold food and drinks directly stimulate the nerve, causing discomfort.

Early-stage cavities often cause mild sensitivity, which can be treated simply with dental fillings—no root canal needed. Unfortunately, many people delay dental visits because they fear pain. In reality, treating a cavity early is usually quick and painless.

Some cavities, especially those between teeth or around impacted wisdom teeth, are harder to spot. In those cases, dentists may use air tests, X-rays, and visual exams to detect damage. Contact fillings in such areas are more delicate but can still be done gently and safely.

2. Tooth Neck Abrasion (Cervical Wear)

Cervical wear occurs when the hard tissue at the neck of the tooth is eroded, typically forming a V-shaped groove with exposed yellow dentin. This condition often causes pain when brushing or drinking cold water—and in severe cases, even breathing in cool air can hurt.

The main causes are excessive brushing, abnormal bite forces, and microcracks in the enamel. Depending on the severity, treatment may include bite adjustment, composite fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy to restore both function and aesthetics.

3. Cracked or Fractured Teeth

Cracks in teeth may result from two major factors:

• Intrinsic weakness in the enamel due to poor mineralization or incomplete formation.

• External trauma, such as biting down on hard objects or accidents.

Cracks can range from tiny hairline fractures to deep splits reaching the root. Early signs often include sharp pain while chewing or sensitivity to temperature changes.

Cracked teeth require immediate attention to prevent the crack from spreading. Treatments vary based on severity and may include fillings, reinforcing rings, root canal therapy, or in advanced cases, tooth extraction followed by implant placement.

To lower your risk of cracked teeth, avoid biting hard foods, cut tough items into small pieces, and chew gently—especially as you age.

4. Gum Recession

Gum recession, often seen in older adults, exposes the tooth roots and makes teeth more sensitive. It can result from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or bad habits like nail biting and pencil chewing.

The root surface is covered by a thin cementum layer, which wears away easily, exposing dentin. This makes the area extremely vulnerable to temperature changes and other irritants.

Depending on the extent of gum loss, treatment may include gum grafting, flap repositioning, or partial fillings. Gum graft surgery is now highly predictable, minimally invasive, and typically completed within 45 minutes per site, offering long-lasting results.

5. Teeth Grinding and Other Harmful Oral Habits

Bruxism (teeth grinding) is a common but often overlooked cause of tooth wear and sensitivity. Because it typically occurs during sleep, many people aren’t aware they have this habit until significant damage has already been done.

Signs of bruxism include:

• Flattened or worn-down chewing surfaces

• Jaw tightness or soreness upon waking

• Audible grinding at night (noticed by a partner)

Long-term grinding removes enamel and exposes dentin, leading to hypersensitivity. Treatment involves addressing the root cause—usually with a custom night guard—to protect the teeth. Additional solutions include desensitizing toothpaste, fillings for worn areas, or crowns and root canal therapy in severe cases.

6. Sensitivity Caused by Dental Treatments

Tooth sensitivity can also occur after certain dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening.

• After fillings: Sensitivity may arise if the cavity is not fully sealed, bonding is incomplete, or the tooth structure is etched too deeply.

• After crowns: Teeth that still have live pulp can react to crown placement, especially if the finishing lines are exposed, the porcelain is cracked, or the tooth structure is very close to the nerve.

• After whitening: Whitening agents penetrate enamel and dentin to remove stains. This temporarily increases dentin sensitivity, usually lasting a few days.

If post-treatment sensitivity doesn’t improve, a dentist can identify the exact cause and provide targeted solutions—such as rebonding, desensitizing treatments, or further restorative work.
 

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Tooth sensitivity can be triggered by many factors, including decay, gum recession, enamel wear, cracks, teeth grinding, or dental procedures. While mild sensitivity may seem manageable at first, it’s often an early warning sign of deeper dental issues.

Identifying the root cause early and getting timely treatment can save your teeth, reduce pain, and prevent more complicated and expensive procedures later on. If you’re experiencing persistent sensitivity, schedule a professional dental check-up as soon as possible.