A sudden sharp pain when drinking coffee or eating ice cream might seem minor, but tooth sensitivity is a clear signal that your natural tooth protection is compromised. This guide will help you understand what’s happening and how to effectively deal with sensitive teeth.
What are sensitive teeth?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when dentin becomes exposed. Dentin is the inner layer of the tooth, filled with microscopic tubules that lead directly to the nerve. When enamel (the protective outer layer) wears down or gums recede, these tubules become exposed. As a result, you may feel a sharp, short pain triggered by:
- Cold
- Heat
- Sweet or acidic foods and drinks
- Even breathing in cold air
Tooth sensitivity is not a disease - it’s a symptom.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Sensitive teeth don’t appear without a reason. It’s a clear sign that your tooth’s natural protection is being damaged. To stop the problem, you first need to understand its causes.
1. Enamel damage - the main cause
- Brushing too hard
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Abrasive or highly whitening toothpastes
- Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks
2. Gum recession
When gums recede, the tooth root becomes exposed - and unlike enamel, it has no protective layer. This is one of the most common causes of long-term sensitivity.
3. Cavities and micro-damage
Even small, invisible lesions can lead to sensitivity.
4. Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Wears down enamel mechanically
- Causes micro-cracks
Sensitivity from grinding is often worse in the morning.
5. Post-treatment sensitivity (temporary)
- After teeth whitening
- After fillings
- After professional cleaning
This type of sensitivity usually disappears within a few days.
What makes the biggest difference in your daily routine?
1. Gentle but effective brushing
Brushing too aggressively or using a hard toothbrush is one of the most common causes of sensitivity.
Choose:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush (e.g., Davids bamboo toothbrush)
- Or a modern solution that reduces pressure, such as a bioelectric toothbrush like Tromatz Pro, which uses microcurrents to remove plaque without aggressive scrubbing
2. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Pay close attention to ingredients. The best toothpaste for sensitive teeth should be free from harsh abrasives and contain nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA). Nano-hydroxyapatite is a mineral identical to your natural tooth structure. It helps to repair micro-damage, seal dentin tubules and strengthen enamel. That’s why it’s increasingly recognized as a safe and effective alternative to fluoride.
For example, Davids Hydroxi™ toothpaste is specifically designed for sensitive teeth - helping reduce sensitivity while actively strengthening enamel.
3. Interdental care
Often overlooked - but critical. Plaque buildup between teeth can lead to gum inflammation, recession, and increased sensitivity. Use a gentle but effective floss, such as expanding floss like Davids Hydroxi™, to clean between teeth daily.
4. Alcohol-free mouthwash
Using mouthwash after brushing is beneficial, but alcohol-based formulas can worsen irritation. Choose a gentle, remineralizing mouthwash, such as Davids Hydroxi™ mouthwash, to support enamel and reduce sensitivity.
What to avoid if you have sensitive teeth?
- Hard-bristled toothbrushes
- Aggressive whitening toothpastes
- Brushing immediately after acidic foods
- Applying too much pressure when brushing
- Frequent snacking on acidic foods or drinks
When should you see a dentist?
Seek professional help if:
- Sensitivity is increasing
- Pain lasts longer than a few seconds
- Only one specific tooth is sensitive
- Sensitivity appears suddenly
These may indicate cavities, enamel cracks, or pulp inflammation - conditions that require professional treatment.
Tooth sensitivity is not normal
It’s an early warning sign that something isn’t right. If you act early, you can: stop discomfort, avoid complex dental treatments and preserve your natural tooth structure
Ignore it - and you’re likely heading toward fillings, root canal treatment, or more serious issues.
Sources:
- World Health Organization (WHO) duomenys apie burnos sveikatą
- Marcenes et al., Global burden of oral conditions, Journal of Dental Research
- Kassebaum et al., Global prevalence of caries and periodontitis
- Frencken et al., Global epidemiology of dental caries and periodontitis
- E. Pepla, L. K. Besharat (2014). Nano-hydroxyapatite and its applications in preventive, restorative and regenerative dentistry: a review of literature.
- C. Pushpalatha, V.S. Gayathri (2023). Nanohydroxyapatite in dentistry: A comprehensive review.