So, what is sensitive teeth meaning? Do you also have the same problem? Sensitive teeth is a very common problem which creates pain and discomfort to teeth when dealing with certain temperatures or foods.
If you also have the same problem, you are not required to worry much about it as millions of people are also suffering from sensitive teeth problems.
But, the problem is when you avoid such pain considering a common issue.
Here is the simple question along with answers to solve your queries and know sensitive teeth reasons better.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth All of a Sudden

Sensitive teeth can be issue with anyone without any age-specific people. Some people also experience this sensitivity issue while brushing the teeth or flossing the teeth.
It is sudden pain or sharp flash arose from exposure to cold, air, hot foods, sweet or acidic foods. Some of the common causes which may trigger the pain are mentioned below:
- The roots of the tooth are protected by gums. If the gum is inflamed or sore, it can affect directly to the tooth roots.
- Gum recession happens when a patient has periodontal disease.
- When you are brushing your teeth from a hard-bristled toothbrush.
- Teeth clenching or grinding enables wear down enamel.
- If you are using mouthwash, the exposure to dentin can damage the dentin layer.
- Sometimes the pain is due to professional cleaning, crown replacement, or root planning. This type of pain disappears in 4 to 6 weeks.
What do Sensitive Teeth Feel Like
Some people do not take their oral health so seriously. There are some signs at the initial stage which tells the dental problems before the severeness. Tooth sensitivity is also a very common term in dentistry.
This is dentin or root hypersensitivity which makes your teeth painful or sensitive. When you drink or eat very acidic foods, hot, cold, sweet containing foods or breathing the cold air in, and your teeth feel the sensation around some tooth area, you have a sensitive teeth problem.
Although it seems quite common and general issue to you, it is required to not avoid it and get the treatment before the cavity damages your teeth or roots.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth to Hot and Cold
When you feel the passing hot and cold foods and drinks are hurting the teeth area, it is sensitive teeth pain.
Teeth have a protective layer to assist in dealing with everything you put in that is called enamel which is the thin outer covering and the hard tissue in your body.
Actually, this coating is around the crown and translucent as you can notice light through this covering. The tooth sensitivity to cold or hold food hurts more when you use a hard-bristle brush.
If you have realised that you have a teeth sensitivity, just have a closer look at it. Notice the gumline area and try to find out whether gums are attached to the teeth or not. Gradually diminishing gums are the main concern to easily feel sensation.
Sometimes, the reason for sensitive teeth can be due to cracked or chopped one, cavity affected teeth, gum disease and a worn feeling. To treat the sensitivity, it is better to visit the dentist near around your location instead of avoiding it.
What Helps Sensitive Teeth

The sensitive teeth can hurt due to some activities like eating, drinking or brushing your teeth. Visiting the dentist in this condition is the right thing which will help you get the right direction.
Some people apply home remedies to treat the sensitive teeth, but trying out inexperienced and old remedies to your teeth are also not good for your teeth health. Although, sometimes they work quite well in treating the sensitivity.
When you have sensitive teeth, here are the things which are generally advised by the dentist to help you treat sensitive teeth:
- Fluoride:
The dentist applies fluoride to the tooth area and enamel to reduce the sensitivity pain. You can be also recommended to use the fluoride at home to treat them.
- Sensitivity Fighting Toothbrush:
Desensitizing toothpaste can help to block the sensitivity completely after some applications. There are different desensitizing toothpaste is available in the market, but do not pick out any without consulting a doctor.
- Root Canal:
When other treatments are not effective to cure your pain, the dentist recommends your root canal treatment. It is the most successful technique to treat the teeth sensitivity for softcore or dental pulp.
- Surgical Gum:
When you have lost your teeth tissues, the dentist can take small tissues from elsewhere in the mouth and attach them to the affected side. As it treats the exposed area of enamel, it is a good way to reduce sensitivity.
- Bonding:
Sometimes, the dentist can also apply bonding resin to the sensitive teeth area to treat the exposed surfaces of roots.
What Foods Cause Sensitive Teeth
Here is the list of foods, you should avoid if you are dealing with sensitive teeth issue:
- Ice Cream
- Soda
- Hot Coffee
- Citrus Fruits
- Sticky Candy
- Hard Candy
- Ice
- Tomatoes
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Juice
Why Are Teeth Sensitive to Metal
Some people also feel pain when the metal like metal spoon touches the teeth or come in between the teeth.
This can be due to sensitive teeth which are required to treat from the dentist as early as possible. When you visit the dentist, you are directed to take the right treatment to treat this sensitivity to metal.
Why Are Teeth Sensitive After Dental Work

As the dentist cleans the tooth and separates out the decayed tissues by filing with new material, it can cause sensitivity just after getting it done.
This is the reason why the dentist recommends the patients to avoid drinking or eating for some days. Although, all the foods do not cause sensitivity. Some of the foods and drinks you should avoid just after dental work are:
- Sugary foods
- Acidic drinks and foods
- Hot drinks
- Cold drinks
How to Stop Sensitive Teeth Pain Immediately
Sensitive teeth trigger the sudden pain in the affected teeth area. When your teeth tissues are exposed to hot or cold foods, they cause sensitivity.
Here are the ways to treat sensitivity immediately:
- Salt+hot water
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Ice or cold compress
- Apple cider vinegar
- Acupressure
So, sensitive teeth are the indication that you need to consult a dentist and get it resolved.
Avoiding such pain in teeth can increase the severeness that may require major treatment.
It is always better to take regular dental care and get treatment at the right time.
At Ekdantam You can get Best Advice for Teeth sensitivity Book appointyment or call us now on +91 9782601131
FAQs
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various factors, including worn enamel, exposed tooth roots due to gum recession, tooth decay, cracked teeth, and teeth grinding. It can also be a result of recent dental procedures like teeth whitening or dental restoration.
Using desensitizing toothpaste, practicing proper brushing techniques, and avoiding acidic or sugary foods can help reduce tooth sensitivity. Additionally, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and refraining from grinding your teeth can also be beneficial.
Yes, when the gums recede, it exposes the underlying sensitive tooth roots, leading to heightened sensitivity to various stimuli. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can help prevent gum recession.
Dental treatments for sensitive teeth include applying dental sealants, fluoride varnishes, or desensitizing agents to reduce sensitivity. In cases of severe sensitivity, dental procedures like bonding, root canal therapy, or surgical gum grafts might be recommended.
Yes, using harsh toothpaste, particularly those with abrasive ingredients, can wear down the enamel and contribute to tooth sensitivity. Opting for toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoiding aggressive brushing can help prevent this.
Yes, avoiding highly acidic foods and beverages, as well as limiting the intake of sugary snacks and drinks, can help reduce tooth sensitivity. Incorporating a diet rich in calcium and phosphates can also promote healthier tooth enamel.