Why Is My Tooth Suddenly So Sensitive?

February 9, 2024

Tooth sensitivity can come on gradually over time or can happen suddenly. You might be eating something hot, cold, sweet, or spicy and feel a sudden ache or sharp pain. Even breathing in cold air can cause sensitive teeth to hurt.

Sensitive teeth can disrupt your daily routine and impact your quality of life. So why is your tooth suddenly so sensitive? Here are a few common causes of sudden tooth sensitivity.

Enamel Erosion

A common cause of sudden tooth sensitivity is enamel erosion [1]. Enamel is that hard, shiny layer that covers the more sensitive tissues of your teeth.

When enamel is worn away, it exposes the tiny channels—called tubules—that lead to the inner nerve tissue of your teeth. Temperatures from what you eat, drink, and breathe can travel through these channels, which causes the discomfort of tooth sensitivity.

There are many reasons enamel erosion can happen. Frequently consuming sugary or acidic foods or drinks can wear down tooth enamel, as can aggressive tooth brushing and health conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can cause gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth and expose the tooth roots. When this happens, the tooth is more susceptible to discomfort and pain from temperatures [2].

Some people may only experience sensitivity in a single tooth if they have gum disease, especially if the condition is worse in that particular area. Others may notice their sensitivity starts suddenly with a single tooth and then progresses to other teeth.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay happens when the tooth enamel is worn away and the softer tissue underneath, dentin, is exposed. Bacteria, plaque, and food particles can cause a hole in the tooth as the enamel wears away, causing sensitive teeth [3].

Early tooth decay doesn’t typically show symptoms, so by the time you are experiencing sudden sensitivity, it’s likely the cavity has already progressed, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. If the cavity gets large enough, root canal therapy may be needed to alleviate sensitivity and restore the tooth.

Recent Dental Procedures

It’s possible that your sudden tooth sensitivity is the result of a recent dental procedure you had. Procedures such as fillings, crown placements, or teeth whitening can cause sudden but temporary tooth sensitivity. Most patients can expect this sensitivity to subside within a few days as the teeth adjust to the changes.

Tooth Fractures

Grinding or clenching your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, can lead to enamel wear and tooth fractures, which can cause sudden discomfort and sensitivity [4]. Clenching and grinding your teeth places excessive pressure on the teeth and tooth roots, leading to heightened sensitivity, gum inflammation, discomfort, and a higher risk for chipped and cracked teeth.

Ask Your Dentist About Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity should never be ignored. It’s essential to identify and address the root cause so you can manage or alleviate tooth sensitivity to maintain your oral health and quality of life.

If you have a single tooth that’s suddenly become sensitive, don’t wait to follow up with your dentist about it!