Tooth sensitivity is the condition of a short, sharp pain experienced on consumption of hot or cold food / beverages. The outermost layer of our tooth is enamel, covering the crown of the tooth, the cementum covers the root of the tooth and dentine is the inner layer. Tooth sensitivity is caused when the tooth enamel wears away and the dentine is exposed. There are several ways in which tooth enamel can wear away, thereby exposing the dentine, leaving the tooth prone to sensitivity.
Gum recession
Vigorous brushing
Grinding teeth
Consuming acidic foods and beverages
When exposed dentine comes into contact with anything hot, cold, sweet or sour, it can trigger the nerves and cause a short sharp pain. Even inhaling cold air can trigger pain in sensitive teeth.
