Have you asked yourself, “why your teeth are so sensitive?” Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common dental concerns, affecting millions of people every year. Sensitivity can appear suddenly or build gradually, and the causes range from simple enamel wear to underlying dental problems that need attention. At Kremer Dental, we help patients understand why they are experiencing discomfort and what can be done to relieve it.
To get to the root of the issue, it is important to understand the most common reasons for tooth sensitivity and how to know when it is time to visit a dentist.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
To answer the question of why your teeth are so sensitive, it helps to know what is happening inside the tooth. Each tooth has a protective outer layer of enamel. Beneath that is dentin, which contains tiny tubules connected to the nerve. When enamel becomes thin or exposed, sensations like cold, heat, sweets, or pressure can reach the nerve more easily, triggering discomfort.
Here are the most common reasons this happens:
Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion is one of the leading causes of sensitivity. Acidic foods and drinks, grinding your teeth, and brushing too aggressively can wear down enamel over time. When the enamel weakens, the dentin underneath becomes more exposed, causing heightened sensitivity.
If you are constantly asking why are my teeth so sensitive, look closely at your diet and brushing habits to see if enamel erosion may be a factor.
Gum Recession
As gums pull back due to brushing habits, gum disease, or aging, the sensitive root surface becomes exposed. Roots do not have enamel protecting them, which is why even small areas of recession can lead to sharp sensitivity.
If you notice your teeth look longer or your gumline appears uneven, gum recession may be contributing to your discomfort.
Cavities or Tooth Decay
Sometimes, the answer to why your teeth are so sensitive is simply tooth decay. Cavities create holes in enamel that expose inner layers. Sensitivity from decay is often sharp and triggered by cold or sweet foods.
Untreated cavities can worsen quickly, so scheduling an exam at Kremer Dental is important if you suspect decay.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Even small cracks can allow temperature changes or pressure to reach the inner layers of the tooth. Trauma, teeth grinding, or biting something hard can cause cracks. If one specific tooth hurts when biting or chewing, a crack may be the cause.
Cracked teeth often require fillings or crowns to prevent further damage and eliminate sensitivity.
Recent Dental Work
If you’ve recently had fillings, crowns, whitening, or other treatments, your teeth may be temporarily sensitive. This is normal as the nerve adjusts.
However, if sensitivity worsens or does not improve within a couple of weeks, it is worth asking a dentist the question of why your teeth are so sensitive to make sure the tooth is healing properly.
Exposed Tooth Roots
Conditions like gum disease or aggressive brushing can expose the root structure of the tooth. Roots are much more sensitive because they lack protective enamel. This can cause sensitivity to cold air, brushing, or touching the area.
If exposed roots are the reason behind your question why are my teeth so sensitive, treatment may include bonding, desensitizing agents, or gum grafting.
Nighttime Teeth Grinding
Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear down enamel and strain the tooth structure. You may not notice it happening, but signs include jaw soreness, flattened teeth, or morning headaches.
A nightguard can help protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Whitening Toothpaste or Whitening Treatments
Some whitening products contain ingredients that temporarily increase sensitivity. If you recently switched to toothpaste or used a whitening kit, this may be the answer to why your teeth are so sensitive.
Switching to a gentler formula or spacing out whitening treatments can provide relief.
When to Call Kremer Dental
If sensitivity is severe, lasts more than two weeks, or is triggered every time you eat or drink, it is a sign that something deeper may be going on. You should contact Kremer Dental if you experience:
- Sensitivity located in one specific tooth
- Pain when biting
- Swelling or gum tenderness
- Visible cracks or chips
- Sensitivity following dental work that is not improving
Ignoring sensitivity can lead to more serious dental issues, so professional evaluation is important.
Get Relief From Tooth Sensitivity at Kremer Dental
If you keep asking why your teeth are so sensitive, the team at Kremer Dental is here to help. We offer gentle, personalized care to diagnose the cause and provide effective treatment that protects your teeth and reduces discomfort.
Contact Kremer Dental today to schedule an appointment and get lasting relief from tooth sensitivity.
