Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.
A short, sharp pain when eating ice cream, drinking hot coffee or breathing in cold air – sensitive teeth (dentine hypersensitivity) are a common problem. Around one in four adults is affected. The cause usually lies in exposed tooth necks, where the sensitive dentine is no longer protected by enamel.
Why do teeth become sensitive?
The visible part of the tooth is protected by a hard layer of enamel. Below the gum line, the tooth is covered by cementum and the gums. If these protective layers are damaged or recede, the dentine is exposed. The dentine contains fine channels (dentinal tubules) that are directly connected to the dental nerve. External stimuli are conducted to the nerve through these channels and perceived as pain.
Common causes
Exposed tooth necks
The most common cause: gum recession exposes the sensitive tooth necks. This can be caused by brushing too hard, periodontitis or genetic predisposition.
Enamel erosion
- Acidic diet: Fruit juices, soft drinks, citrus fruits and vinegar attack the enamel
- Heartburn / reflux: Stomach acid can attack the enamel from the inside
- Overly aggressive oral hygiene: Hard toothbrushes and highly abrasive toothpastes
- Teeth grinding: The enormous strain wears away the enamel
Other causes
- After dental treatment: Temporary sensitivity after fillings, whitening or professional teeth cleaning is normal and usually subsides within days to a few weeks
- Tooth decay: A cavity in the tooth can irritate the nerve
- Cracks in the enamel: Hairline cracks can conduct stimuli to the nerve
- Defective fillings: Leaking or worn fillings can make the tooth sensitive
What helps with sensitive teeth?
Immediate measures at home
- Sensitive toothpaste: Toothpastes with potassium nitrate calm the dental nerve, and active ingredients such as stannous fluoride or arginine can seal the dentinal tubules; an improvement usually shows after 2 to 4 weeks of regular use
- Soft toothbrush: Reduces mechanical irritation of the gums and tooth neck
- Adjust your brushing technique: Gentle, circular movements instead of horizontal scrubbing. Brush from the gum towards the tooth
- Fluoride mouthwash: Strengthens the enamel and can partially seal the tubules
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Temporarily avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks
- Wait 30 minutes after eating: Acids temporarily soften the enamel. Brushing straight away can wear it down further
Professional treatment at the dentist
- Fluoride varnish: A highly concentrated fluoride varnish is applied to the sensitive areas and forms a protective layer
- Sealing: Exposed tooth necks can be sealed with a flowable resin or dentine adhesive
- Tooth neck fillings: For deep wedge-shaped defects at the tooth neck, a composite filling can protect the area
- Periodontitis treatment: If periodontitis is the cause, the underlying condition must be treated
- Occlusal splint: If you grind your teeth, an occlusal splint protects the teeth from further wear
When to see a dentist
Occasional, brief sensitivity after eating very cold or hot foods is usually harmless. However, see a dentist if:
- The sensitivity is persistent or getting worse
- The pain occurs spontaneously, without an identifiable trigger
- You notice a throbbing pain (this can indicate an inflamed nerve)
- Sensitive toothpaste brings no improvement after 2 to 4 weeks
- You notice visible defects, cracks or discolouration at the tooth neck
At our practice in Düsseldorf, we diagnose the cause of your sensitive teeth and treat it specifically: 0211 – 497 67 69.
Preventing sensitive teeth
- Use a soft toothbrush and a gentle brushing technique
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Limit acidic drinks (fruit juices, soft drinks, energy drinks)
- Wait 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing
- Regular check-ups – detect exposed tooth necks early
- If you grind your teeth: have an occlusal splint made by your dentist
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace professional dental advice. If you have symptoms, please contact your dentist.
