Tooth sensitivity is the pain you may feel when you eat or drink hot or cold foods or drinks. You may also feel pain when you breathe in cold air. Read on to find out more about what tooth sensitivity is.

Tooth sensitivity can happen when gums pull away from the teeth or when gum tissue is lost. This can also occur as a result of brushing teeth too hard or not brushing and flossing regularly.

When gum loss occurs, the part of the tooth below the gum line can be exposed. This is called the tooth root. There are tiny tunnels that contain fluid and lead from the tooth root to the tooth’s nerve centre. This nerve centre is called the pulp. When heat or cold touches these tunnels, the tooth fluid can excite the nerve, causing pain in your teeth.

Tooth sensitivity can also happen if the tooth’s hard surface layer, called enamel, gets worn away. Tooth sensitivity can come and go, but ignoring it can lead to other health problems in your mouth.

These factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity:

• Brushing too hard. This can cause gum loss.
• Sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Cola/soda, fruit juices, and sugary snacks can contribute to cavities, which may cause sensitivity.
• Teeth grinding. This can wear down tooth surfaces.
• Dental cleanings or treatments. Tooth sensitivity can happen after dental cleanings or treatments like tooth whitening. It usually goes away shortly after treatment ends. If you have any concerns, talk to your dental team.

Here are some ways to help prevent tooth sensitivity:

• Brush and floss your teeth twice a day to prevent gum loss.
• Be sure to clean all parts of your mouth, including between teeth and along the gumline.
• Brush gently. You can also try an electric toothbrush, which has a pressure sensor with a warning light to help you adjust the brushing pressure to the right levels. This will help prevent gum loss and protect your enamel from being worn away.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks.
• If you still have tooth sensitivity, talk to your dental team. They may have other suggestions.
• Quick facts about tooth sensitivity
• Tooth sensitivity is the pain you may feel when you eat or drink hot or cold foods or drinks.
• Sensitivity happens when gums pull away from the teeth or when gum tissue is lost. This exposes the tooth root below the gumline, resulting in sensitivity.
• You can also ask your dental team about special toothpastes for sensitive teeth.

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