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Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to cold, sweets, or brushing can come from enamel wear, gum recession, cavities, or cracks.
Overview
Tooth sensitivity happens when dentin or the tooth nerve is irritated. Mild generalized sensitivity may improve with desensitizing toothpaste, but one-tooth sensitivity, pain on biting, or lingering pain can signal decay or a crack.
Key takeaways
- ✓Hard brushing and acidic drinks can worsen sensitivity.
- ✓Gum recession exposes root surfaces that are more sensitive.
- ✓Sensitivity toothpaste helps some cases but will not fix cavities or cracks.
- ✓Pain that lingers after cold needs evaluation.
What you can do
- 1Use a soft toothbrush and avoid scrubbing.
- 2Try desensitizing fluoride toothpaste consistently for several weeks.
- 3Reduce acidic drinks like cola, citrus drinks, and frequent vinegar-based foods.
- 4Do not brush immediately after acidic foods or vomiting; rinse first and wait.
When to book a dentist
- !Sensitivity is limited to one tooth.
- !Pain lingers after cold or wakes you at night.
- !You feel pain when biting or releasing a bite.
- !There is visible gum recession, cavity, or broken filling.