Understanding the different types of tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that can arise for a variety of reasons. It occurs when the enamel layer on your teeth gets damaged or erodes, causing the underlying dentin layer to become exposed. Dentin contains nerve endings, and when these nerves come into contact with cold, hot, sour, or sweet food items, they cause sharp pain. Here, we share some useful insights about the different types of tooth sensitivity:

1. Cold Sensitivity:
   This type of tooth sensitivity occurs when you feel a sharp and lingering pain as soon as you consume cold food or beverages. In some cases, the pain can also be triggered when cold air comes in contact with your teeth. The intensity of the symptoms can vary from person to person. However, the pain usually disappears after a few minutes.

2. Heat Sensitivity:
   You may also experience a similar kind of pain when having hot food or drinks. In general, heat sensitivity occurs due to chipped teeth or the formation of an abscess. The pain you feel is similar to that of cold sensitivity.

3. Sweet Sensitivity:
   Sweet sensitivity occurs when you feel a sharp pain every time you consume a sweet item or dessert. This type of sensitivity can be a sign of exposed roots or dental decay. The sugar in food or drinks can enter the pores in decayed teeth and affect the underlying nerves, leading to sharp pain.

4. Acidic Sensitivity:
   In some cases, consuming sour or acidic items can also trigger pain. You may experience a sharp sensation every time you bite into a citrus fruit or take a gulp of soda. This type of sensitivity is also indicative of enamel erosion, which exposes the sensitive nerve endings underneath.

5. Pressure Sensitivity:
   You may not experience any pain when eating or drinking sweet, sour, cold, or hot items. However, you may feel pain when biting down or chewing. This is pressure sensitivity, and it happens due to gum recession, a cracked tooth, or a variety of other issues.

Managing Tooth Sensitivity

Managing tooth sensitivity involves a combination of good dental hygiene, lifestyle changes, and professional dental care. Here are some tips:

• Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Specially formulated toothpastes can help reduce sensitivity by blocking pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve.
• Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
• Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Reduce consumption of acidic items such as citrus fruits and soft drinks as they can erode enamel.
• Use a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from further damage.
• Regular Dental Visits: See your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist can identify and treat issues that may be causing sensitivity.
  
  

Looking for more information about your teeth hurting symptoms?

Explore our Dent-O-Meter. Answer a few questions and we will reveal your tooth sensitivity score. The higher your score, the more urgently you need to visit a dentist to get a check-up.  To know more about sensitive teeth symptoms and causes, check this useful read.