Why Do People Get Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitivity in the teeth usually comes about because of overly zealous teeth brushing. Although it's good to remove plaque and sugars from our teeth, if we are too vigorous brushing we can end up removing the thin layer of enamel that protects the teeth. This leaves exposed the dentine underneath.

Some people have softer enamel than others, anyway, so are more likely to end up with sensitive teeth. Brushing can also remove the gum to a small extent, exposing the very sensitive tooth roots underneath.

Receding gums, leading to sensitive teeth, can also come about because of bad oral hygiene.

High consumption of highly acidic foods can lead to enamel erosion and sensitive teeth. These include soda drinks, citrus fruit juices, tea and coffee.

Dentine is softer than enamel and wears away more quickly, so if you already have sensitive teeth then you really need to take more care of them in the future, to prevent further erosion. If the dentine goes, then the soft pulp of the tooth underneath starts to get exposed, and that is extremely sensitive. Receding gums will come back if brushing is kept gentle.

Many dentists recommend electric toothbrushes with very soft heads, in place of manual toothbrushes for people with sensitive teeth.

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