6 Oral Issues That Can Cause Increased Tooth Sensitivity

If you have ever experienced a sudden throbbing toothache that disappears in a few seconds, then you probably know how annoying it can be. Tooth sensitivity is a quite common issue that can occur because of numerous factors. In most cases, teeth become sensitive due to certain dental issues. Nevertheless, it is essential to contact your dentist and undergo a thorough examination. The point is that the underlying cause of a toothache can be quite severe. In this article, we have gathered six oral issues that can cause increased tooth sensitivity.

1. Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay and caries, are extremely common in both children and adults. Tooth decay develops when acids that are produced by bacterin soften and eat away your tooth enamel. As a result, your tooth develops a hole that exposes the sensitive layers of the tooth. When you eat, drink, or breathe, an affected tooth may become sensitive. That’s why it is better to contact a dental office in the case of tooth sensitivity. 

2. Gum recession

Gum recession is a condition in which your gums shrink and expose the roots of the tooth so the teeth look longer. Due to the fact that the roots of the teeth can be extremely sensitive to temperature changes, you may experience a severe toothache. Gum recession can develop because of poor oral hygiene, aggressive tooth brushing, gum disease, smoking and tobacco use, and a family history of receding gums. 

3. Tooth fracture

If you have fractured a tooth, you may experience a severe toothache or teeth sensitivity. If you have chipped a small part of the tooth or have a vertical fracture, you may experience sudden short-term pain while consuming hot or cold foods and drinks. Nevertheless, you should visit your dentist and restore the damaged tooth since it can be more prone to tooth decay and dental abscess. 

4. Dental abscess

A dental abscess is a condition that occurs when the infection affects the tooth and leads to the development of a sac with pus. People with a dental abscess can experience a severe toothache, increased teeth sensitivity, fever, swollen gum, unpleasant taste in the mouth, and bad breath. It is important to understand that without timely and effective treatment, a sac can burst and let the pus spread to the jaw, neck, and brain. 

5. Worn-out tooth enamel

Even though tooth enamel is quite strong, it can wear out due to various factors. The most common of them include:

• Aging


• Teeth grinding


• Poor oral hygiene


• Increased consumption of acidic foods and drinks


• Aggressive tooth brushing


• Lip or tongue piercing


• Acid reflux


• Eating disorders (bulimia)

When tooth enamel becomes too thin, it can lead to tooth discoloration, cracks and chips on the surface of the tooth, increased tooth sensitivity, shiny spots, and increased likelihood of tooth decay. 

6. Loose dental filling or crown

It is important to understand that dental fillings and crowns can wear out or become loose over time. Indeed, most dental restorations are permanent but if you grind your teeth, gnaw hard objects, or use your teeth as a tool, your crown or filling can become loose or fall out. If the affected tooth has uncovered nerve endings, you may experience tooth sensitivity and toothache. 

The bottom line

If you have noticed your teeth become sensitive and you can’t eat or drink without pain, it’s high time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. It is essential to understand that only timely and professional treatment can help ease your symptoms and prevent further complications.