What is tooth sensitivity?

Enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth, protects the dentine layer underneath from external influences. On the root surface, this role is taken on by the gum and a thin layer of cementum. When enamel wears away or the gum recedes, dentine is exposed to the mouth. Dentine contains thousands of fine tubules running all the way to the pulp (the tooth’s nerve).

The most widely accepted explanation today is the hydrodynamic theory: a cold drink, a sweet bite or the touch of a toothbrush moves the fluid in these tubules very slightly but rapidly; this movement stimulates the nerve endings in the pulp and a short, sharp twinge is felt. The more open and wide the tubule openings, the more pronounced the twinge.

Sensitivity usually passes within a few seconds once the trigger is removed. It is common in adults; in older age it can sometimes decrease because the tooth’s own defence mechanism partly closes the tubules.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Sensitivity is a symptom rather than the name of a disease. Finding the underlying cause is the most important step in treatment.

• A hard toothbrush and incorrect technique: Brushing horizontally and pressing hard wears away the neck of the tooth, especially around the canines and premolars.
• An acidic diet (erosion): Frequent acidic drinks, fizzy drinks, citrus fruits and vinegary foods soften the enamel. Brushing straight after acid can increase wear.
• Gum recession: Gum disease, a thin gum type, the tooth’s position in the jawbone or aggressive brushing exposes the root surface.
• Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism): Excessive force both wears down the chewing surface and can cause small fractures at the neck of the tooth.
• After a scale and polish or gum treatment: Temporary sensitivity can occur when the root surface is cleaned; it usually decreases within days to weeks.
• Whitening: Whitening agents can cause temporary cold sensitivity; it usually passes when treatment ends.
• A new or broken filling, a cracked tooth: These may feel like “sensitivity” but require a separate assessment.

Sensitivity, or decay or nerve pain?

Not every twinge thought to be sensitivity is dentine hypersensitivity. The table below can help you understand the difference; however, a definitive distinction can only be made by examination and, if necessary, an X-ray.

How is tooth sensitivity treated?

Treatment follows two routes: sealing the tubule openings or reducing the stimulation of the nerve endings. The dentist first assesses wear, decay, cracks and the condition of the gums, then suggests a plan ranging from simple to comprehensive.

What you can do at home

• Sensitivity toothpastes: Those containing potassium nitrate aim to reduce nerve stimulation, while those containing stannous fluoride, arginine or calcium phosphate aim to block the tubules. The effect usually takes a few weeks of regular use to appear.
• A soft toothbrush and gentle technique: Brush from the gum towards the tooth, with small circular movements and without pressing.
• Managing acid: Have acidic drinks with meals, quickly and, if possible, through a straw; rinse with water afterwards and wait about half an hour to an hour before brushing.

What can be done in the clinic

• Fluoride varnish and desensitisers: Applied to the exposed dentine surface, they form a protective precipitate at the tubule openings. The effect may not be permanent; it is repeated when needed.
• Bonding (adhesive) and thin sealants: Resin that bonds to dentine physically covers the tubules.
• Restoration with a filling: If there is significant tissue loss at the neck of the tooth, a tooth-coloured filling can reduce both the sensitivity and the progression of wear.
• Gum treatment and surgical coverage: In suitable cases, an exposed root surface can be covered with a gum graft performed by a specialist in periodontology.
• Night guard: If you clench your teeth, a custom guard may be recommended to protect them from excessive force.

What daily habits help prevent sensitivity?

Preventing dentine from being exposed again is just as important as treatment. The following habits reduce the chance of sensitivity recurring in most people:

• Choose a soft or extra-soft toothbrush; if you use an electric toothbrush, models with a pressure warning can help reduce pressing.
• Avoid using highly abrasive “whitening” toothpastes for long periods and on their own.
• Do not spread acidic drinks throughout the day; choose water and plain dairy products between meals.
• If you have reflux or frequent heartburn, tell your dentist as well; stomach acid can wear teeth, especially on the inner surfaces.
• If you notice yourself clenching during the day, try to remember the resting position: lips closed, teeth slightly apart.
• Have your gum health monitored with regular check-ups; gum problems caught early help limit the progression of recession.

Who is at higher risk?

• People who have had gum disease or have a thin gum type
• People who sip acidic drinks throughout the day, or who have reflux or frequent vomiting
• People who clench or grind their teeth
• People who use a hard toothbrush and brush with strong pressure
• People in the period after orthodontic treatment, gum treatment or whitening

What are the risks, and when should you see a dentist?

Suppressing sensitivity with toothpaste alone can hide the underlying cause. Do not delay an examination in the following situations:

• The twinge lasts a long time after the trigger is removed, or wakes you at night
• Pronounced and increasing pain in a single tooth
• Sudden, sharp pain on biting (suspected crack)
• Bleeding gums, swelling or a loose tooth
• No improvement despite several weeks of regular use of sensitivity toothpaste

At the examination, the dentist may gently test the sensitive area with air or a cold stimulus, decide whether an X-ray is needed, and investigate the cause of any recession with gum measurements.

Frequently asked questions

Related pages

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Dt. Mehmet Fuat BozabaSpecialist in periodontology · September 2026

Appointments and information: message us on WhatsApp or call +90 544 289 66 33. Yayla Dental Akademi, Bahçelievler / Istanbul.

Sources: Rai B, Kaur J. Fundamentals of Operative Dentistry. Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers, 2010; Roberson TM, Heymann HO, Swift EJ (eds). Sturdevant’s Art and Science of Operative Dentistry, 4th ed. Mosby, 2002; Goldstein RE, Garber DA. Complete Dental Bleaching. Quintessence Publishing, 1995.

This article is for information only; diagnosis and treatment planning are determined solely by a doctor after an examination.