Why are my teeth sensitive? Causes, home care and when to see a dentist

That quick, sharp jolt when you sip cold water or bite into ice cream is one of the most common dental complaints. Sensitivity happens when the layer under the enamel — called dentine — becomes exposed. Dentine contains tiny channels that lead to the nerve, so hot, cold, sweet or sour things can trigger pain.

Common causes

• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush, which wears enamel and pushes gums back
• Receding gums, which expose the root surface of the tooth
• Acidic food and drink — soft drinks, citrus, pickles — which soften enamel
• Grinding or clenching your teeth, often at night
• Tooth decay or a cracked tooth
• Gum disease and tartar build-up
• Temporary sensitivity after whitening, cleaning or a new filling

What helps at home

• Switch to a soft-bristled brush and use gentle, short strokes
• Use a desensitising toothpaste twice a day; it often takes a few weeks to help
• After acidic food or drink, rinse with water and wait before brushing
• Don't skip flossing — healthy gums protect the roots

When it's more than sensitivity

See a dentist if:

• The pain lasts more than a few seconds after the trigger is gone
• One particular tooth hurts, rather than a general sensitivity
• It hurts to bite down
• There's swelling, or the sensitivity has been getting worse

Lingering or one-tooth pain can be a sign of decay, a crack or a nerve problem that may need a filling or a root canal.

How a dentist can help

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include professional scaling and polishing to remove tartar, applying a protective varnish to exposed areas, filling a cavity, covering exposed roots, or a night guard if you grind.

If sensitivity is bothering you, Dr. Jahanvi Tyagi can find the cause and suggest the right fix. The clinic in Jhotwara, Jaipur is open every day — book a visit.