Hello friends, this is Dr. Stela Heisler. Today, I want to talk to you about one of the most common issues I encounter at my clinic in Jerusalem – sensitive teeth to hot and cold. This is a bothersome phenomenon that affects the quality of life for millions of people worldwide, and I want to help you understand what causes teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold and how to cope with this sensitivity effectively.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a sharp, fleeting sensation of pain that occurs when the tooth is exposed to stimuli like hot or cold drinks, sweet or sour foods, and sometimes even cold air. The pain usually appears in the neck of the tooth – the area where the tooth meets the gums.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
The causes of this problem are varied and complex, and often it’s a combination of several factors:
Enamel Wear – This is the most common cause I see in my clinic. Enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth, made of the hardest material in the human body. When this layer wears down gradually, the underlying dentin layer is exposed. Dentin contains thousands of tiny tubules (dentinal tubules) that conduct stimuli directly to the tooth nerve. Enamel wear can be caused by overly aggressive brushing, regular consumption of acidic drinks, stomach reflux that brings acid into the mouth, or habits like biting on pens and nails.
Gum Recession – A condition where the gums recede from the tooth neck, exposing the tooth root that isn’t protected by enamel. In many cases I see, the problem starts due to overly aggressive brushing with a hard brush, but it can also be caused by gum disease, genetic factors, hormonal changes, smoking, or even lip or tongue piercings. When the tooth root is exposed, the patient experiences particularly sharp sensitivity.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – An unconscious habit of grinding and clenching teeth, often during sleep or in stressful situations. The immense pressure created can cause tiny cracks in the enamel, wear on the chewing surface of the teeth, and dentin exposure. Many of my patients aren’t even aware they’re grinding their teeth until I identify the signs during an examination.
Decay and Gum Diseases – Decay creates holes in the tooth that allow direct access of stimuli to the inner layers. Gum disease causes inflammation and gum recession, exposing sensitive areas. In advanced cases, the infection can reach the tooth nerve itself.
Natural Aging – With age, enamel wears down naturally, gums tend to recede, and the dentin layer thickens. This makes teeth more sensitive. In patients over 40, I see a significant increase in complaints about tooth sensitivity.
Recent Dental Treatments – After certain treatments like thorough cleaning, teeth whitening, or crown placement, temporary sensitivity may develop that lasts from a few days to several weeks. This is a normal reaction that usually resolves on its own.
Nutritional Factors – Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, vinegar, wine, soft drinks, and energy drinks can cause acidic erosion of the enamel. My patients are often surprised to learn that even flavored water or tea with lemon can contribute to the problem if consumed regularly.
How Do I Treat Tooth Sensitivity at My Clinic?
When a patient comes to me with a complaint of tooth sensitivity, I start with a thorough examination to identify the specific cause. Based on the findings, I recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Professional Fluoride Application – This treatment strengthens the enamel and creates an additional protective layer on the tooth.
- Use of Sealing Materials – A material with special components that seals the tiny tubules in the dentin and reduces the transmission of stimuli to the tooth nerve.
- Tooth Restoration – In cases of decay or cracks, I perform appropriate restoration treatments.
- Gum Treatment – When the problem stems from gum disease, I perform thorough gum health treatment.
Detailed Home Recommendations for Relieving Tooth Sensitivity
Alongside professional treatment, there are many effective steps you can take at home. Over the years, I’ve found that patients who consistently apply the following recommendations see significant improvement in sensitivity:
Choosing the Right Toothpaste – Use a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. It’s important to understand that these products don’t work immediately-they need at least 2-4 weeks of consistent use to build effective protection. I recommend my patients use this paste both during brushing and as a direct application on sensitive areas before bed.
Proper Brushing Technique – Use a soft or ultra-soft toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motions. Avoid aggressive horizontal brushing that can cause enamel wear and gum recession. I recommend waiting at least 30-60 minutes after eating or drinking before brushing, especially after consuming something acidic, to allow saliva to neutralize the acidity.
Fluoride Mouth Rinse – Use a mouth rinse containing fluoride once a day, preferably in the evening before bed. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel and create an additional protective layer. It’s important not to rinse your mouth with water after using the rinse, to allow the fluoride to remain on the teeth longer.
Adhering to Proper Dietary Habits – Limit the consumption of acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, vinegar, wine, soft drinks, and energy drinks. When you do consume something acidic, use a straw to minimize contact with the teeth, and rinse your mouth with water afterward. Avoid slow sipping of acidic drinks-it’s better to drink quickly and finish.
Using Sugar-Free Gum – Chewing sugar-free gum after meals encourages saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and protect the teeth. Choose gum containing xylitol, which has additional properties for preventing decay.
Maintaining Mouth Moisture – Dry mouth increases sensitivity. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, use a humidifier in the bedroom if the air is dry, and avoid caffeine or alcohol-containing drinks before bed, as they can cause dryness.
Immediate Home Treatment for Pain – In case of sharp pain, rinse your mouth with lukewarm water with a bit of salt (half a teaspoon in a glass of water). Avoid water that’s too cold or hot. Gently applying sensitive teeth toothpaste directly to the painful area can also help.
Stopping Harmful Habits – Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, pens, or nails. These habits can cause tiny cracks in the enamel or even tooth fractures. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about the possibility of preparing a night guard.
Using Advanced Home Technologies – Quality electric toothbrushes can be gentler than manual brushing and more effective at removing plaque. Make sure to use the gentlest mode and a soft brush head.
Daily Monitoring – Keep a journal of pains and triggers to identify patterns. This will help you understand which foods or activities worsen the problem and will also assist your dentist in planning more precise treatment.
It’s important to remember that relieving tooth sensitivity is a process that requires patience and consistency. Combining several methods usually gives better results.
When Is It Important to Seek Professional Treatment?
I recommend seeking professional treatment when:
- The sensitivity persists despite using special products
- The pain is sharp and interferes with daily activities
- There is swelling or bleeding in the gums
- The tooth hurts even without external stimulus
Summary
Sensitivity of teeth to hot and cold is a treatable problem that can be coped with successfully. It’s important to identify the specific cause and treat it in a tailored way. At my clinic in Jerusalem, I do everything to help my patients regain comfort and confidence while eating and drinking. Remember-you don’t need to suffer from tooth sensitivity. Seek professional treatment and discover how easy it can be to return to enjoying your favorite foods and drinks.
