Sensitive teeth refers to the sensation of pain or discomfort when teeth are exposed to stimuli such as cold or hot drinks and foods, cold air and sweet foods. The pain usually lasts for just a few seconds, although it may linger. Many patients with sensitive teeth experience the symptom repeatedly over a long period of time.

There are two major types of sensitivity that affect the teeth:

• Dentinal sensitivity. Occurs when the middle layer of the tooth (dentin) becomes exposed.
  
  
• Pulpal sensitivity. Occurs when the pulp (mass of blood vessels and nerves at the center of a tooth) of the tooth reacts to stimuli, causing pain.

Many factors can cause teeth to become sensitive, including periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, cracks in teeth, worn tooth enamel, worn fillings, and pressure on the teeth from excessive clenching or grinding (bruxism).

In trying to pinpoint the cause of sensitive teeth, a dentist looks for signs of decay or damage to restoration work. The dentist also looks for exposed tooth roots and may use a metal device with a sharp point (explorer) to check the sensitivity of teeth.

In some cases, no treatment of sensitive teeth is necessary as the symptom fades over time. However, other instances of sensitivity may indicate a problem that requires treatment. Sensitive teeth usually can be treated either at home or at the dentist’s office.

At home, patients may be asked to use desensitizing toothpaste that blocks sensations from traveling from the tooth surface to the nerves. Sensitive teeth also may require treatment in a dentist’s office, such as application of a fluoride gel or other desensitizing agent that helps reduce sensitivity temporarily.