What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

When tooth enamel wears away or gums recession occurs —either can expose the soft, inner part of your tooth called dentine. This dentine houses thousands of microscopic channels that run toward the center of the tooth, where the nerves live.

Certain triggers like cold drinks or hot tea can travel through these channels and stimulate the nerve, causing a short, sharp sensation.

2 Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Enamel Wear Gum Recession

Gum Recession

Healthy gums are essential for healthy teeth. If gums recede, dentine can become exposed, making the teeth susceptible to tooth sensitivity.

CAUSES OF GUM RECESSION

Gum problem

Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding of gums.

Aggressive brushing

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush can also cause gum recession.

Enamel Wear

Enamel is the hard, outermost surface of the tooth protecting the dentine. Over time, if tooth enamel wears away, dentine becomes exposed, which can lead to tooth sensitivity.

CAUSES OF ENAMEL WEAR

Aggressive brushing

Brushing too hard or too frequently.

Acid erosion

Over time, acidic foods and drinks can weaken and erode tooth enamel, which exposes dentine.

How Sensodyne Can Help

Sensodyne is specially formulated to help protect against tooth sensitivity and is a dentist recommended toothpaste brand for sensitive teeth..

It works by creating a barrier over sensitive areas or by soothing the nerves inside your tooth, ultimately offering ongoing sensitivity protection when you brush with it twice a day, every day.

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