What is Tooth Sensitivity? What are the reasons? How to Treat?

Sensitivity occurs when the "dentin", the porous tissue of the tooth, is exposed. There are channels called "tubules" in the dentin that provide nerve conduction. With the exposure of the dentinal tubules, the stimuli cause much faster neural transmission, the sensation reaching the "pulp", the vascular and nerve channel inside the tooth, is transmitted to the brain and tooth sensitivity, which manifests as tingling in the teeth, is observed.

Sensitivity. People with this problem may have difficulty consuming some foods and beverages, and they especially avoid very hot and very cold foods. It may become difficult to fulfill the requirements of daily life and dental care, such as brushing teeth, cleaning between teeth, and rinsing the mouth with water. The aching pain experienced negatively affects the quality of life. That's why sensitivity is one of the most undesirable dental problems.

Reasons of sensitivity:

  • Gingival recession
  • Presence of cracks or fractures in the tooth
  • Wearing of tooth enamel
  • Developmentally low or absent tooth enamel
  • Caries
  • Teeth clenching-grinding


  • To prevent tooth sensitivity, the following should be taken into consideration:

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Thus, you prevent gum recession and tooth wear.
  • Brush your teeth regularly and clean between your teeth. Thus, you will prevent periodontal diseases, gingival recession caused by these diseases, and additionally caries.
  • Use sensitivity-oriented toothpastes. These products slow down or stop nerve conduction by blocking the dentinal tubules.
  • Reduce the consumption of acidic foods and drinks as much as possible. Drink water immediately after consuming them and avoid brushing your teeth immediately. In this way, you will minimize the wear of tooth enamel due to acid erosion.
  • Have the treatment of cracked, broken and decayed teeth done by your dentist as soon as possible, without postponing it.
  • If you have a problem with clenching or grinding your teeth, be sure to see your dentist. consult. Many people may have difficulty understanding this condition because it usually occurs during sleep. Symptoms such as pain in the temples and cheeks, tension and waking up tired when you wake up in the morning, or a Informing your relative (spouse, mother, etc.) may help you in this regard.

    Sensitivity is a condition that can be treated, but it requires a process that requires some patience. To begin with, sensitivity-oriented toothpastes and, if desired, additional sensitivity-oriented mouthwashes are used. These products should be used regularly for 2-4 weeks. If there is no improvement at the end of this period, one or two sessions of fluoride gels or dentinal tubule-occlusive agents applied by your dentist will provide relief. However, sometimes, although rarely, if the sensitivity problem cannot be solved in any way, root canal treatment of the relevant tooth may also be an approach.
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