Pain from Tooth Sensitivity

When tooth enamel wears away—typically over years or even decades—it exposes the soft, inner part of your tooth called dentin. This dentin houses thousands of microscopic channels that run toward the center of the tooth, where the nerves live.

Certain triggers, like popsicles or hot tea, can travel through these channels and stimulate the nerve, causing a short, sharp pain, also known as tooth sensitivity.

2 Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Enamel Wear Gum Recession

Enamel Wear

Enamel is the hard, outermost surface of the tooth and is also what makes teeth white. Over time, if tooth enamel wears away, the dentin becomes exposed, leading to sensitive teeth.

Causes of Enamel Wear

Aggressive brushing

Brushing too hard or too frequently.

Teeth grinding

May cause enamel wear and lead to sensitivity.* Wearing a mouth guard at night can help protect your teeth.

Acid erosion

Over time, acidic foods and drinks can weaken and erode tooth enamel, which can trigger sensitivity at the gum line.

Gum Recession

Healthy gums are essential for healthy teeth. If gums recede, dentin becomes exposed, making the tooth nerves vulnerable to triggers, causing sensitivity.

Causes of Gum Recession

Aggressive brushing

In addition, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can also cause gum recession.

Gum disease (periodontitis)

Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding of gum tissue.


Most middle-aged and older adults have some degree of recession.

*Sensodyne toothpastes may not help with sensitivity caused by teeth grinding

How Sensodyne Can Help

Sensodyne is specially formulated to relieve and protect against tooth sensitivity and is the #1 dentist recommended toothpaste brand for sensitive teeth.

It works by creating a barrier over sensitive areas or by soothing the nerves inside your tooth, ultimately offering 24/7 sensitivity protection when you brush with it twice a day, every day.

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