SensiShield™ - What causes teeth sensitivity

Sensitive Teeth

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For millions of people sensitive teeth can make life a misery. The pain and discomfort can make even favourite food and drink difficult to enjoy.

A tingling sensation or shooting pain that occurs when consuming food and/or drink that is very hot, cold, sweet or acidic could be attributed to sensitive teeth.

This sensitivity occurs when the enamel (protective white layer) that covers the tooth surface is reduced and the softer yellow dentine underneath is exposed. The dentine protects the nerve centre of the tooth and sends messages along thousands of tiny tubes which allow the stimuli of hot, cold, or sweet food, which in turn results in pain and sensitivity.

What causes teeth sensitivity?

  • Brushing too hard – Over time, brushing hard can result in the thinning or loss of the tooth surface enamel, which in turn will expose the dentine. It can also cause the gums to recede and expose the root, which does not have a protective layer of enamel.
  • Acidic foods – Regular consumption of food with a high acid content, such as oranges and lemons, tomatoes and pickles can cause enamel erosion.
  • Carbonated drinks – Fizzy drinks can cause enamel erosion and can have a high sugar content.
  • Gum disease (Gingivitis) – Red swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing may cause sensitivity due to the gum receding and the root surface becoming exposed.
  • Tooth decay – The loss of tooth enamel and exposure of the dentine due to tooth decay can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
  • Broken or cracked teeth and crowns – Chipped, broken teeth or crowns can allow bacteria associated with tooth decay to penetrate the tooth enamel and cause the nerve centre of the tooth to become inflamed.
  • Age – Tooth sensitivity increases with age as tooth enamel becomes thinner and gums begin to recede exposing the unprotected root.
  • Tooth whitening products – Sensitive teeth and gums can occur after tooth whitening/bleaching.