Here you will find out what the most common causes of exposed tooth necks and sensitive teeth are, what helps with sensitive teeth and what you can do to prevent them.

Sensitive teeth can greatly affect daily life and are a common problem affecting people worldwide. This type of tooth sensitivity (also known as dentin hypersensitivity) occurs when the enamel of the teeth erodes or when the gums recede and the underlying tooth necks are exposed. Such changes expose the dentinal tubules, small tubes that lead directly to the nerves in the center of the tooth. When these exposed tubules are irritated by heat, cold or spicy foods, they can cause pain.

Toothache can have many causes. Caries is often thought of, but it is often caused by exposed tooth necks where the dentin is unprotected. Normally, the enamel protects the dentin and the gums surround it. The dentin contains numerous tiny channels that transmit stimuli into the interior of the tooth. If the enamel is damaged or the gums have receded, these channels are exposed. Hot or cold food and drinks as well as sour or sweet foods can then cause severe pain, as the stimuli are transmitted directly to the tooth nerves.

Sensitive teeth can be caused by various reasons, which can be divided into four main categories:

Erosions: Loss of tooth enamel due to chemical processes, usually acids from food that dissolve minerals from the tooth.

Abrasions: Mechanical wear of the tooth enamel, often due to intensive brushing or incorrect toothpaste, which exposes the dentin. Recessions: Non-inflammatory gum recession that exposes the tooth necks and dentin.

Recessions: This term describes the (non-inflammatory) recession of the gums. If the gingiva recedes, the neck of the tooth and thus also the dentin are exposed.

Gum disease: Inflammatory diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis also lead to receding gums and exposed tooth necks.

Lovers of sodas, fruit juices and energy drinks should be careful, as these acidic drinks permanently demineralize tooth enamel, making it thinner and more porous. Microscopic cracks appear, making the enamel less effective at protecting the dentin and tooth nerves from thermal or chemical stimuli.

These erosions are caused by non-bacterial acids, unlike tooth decay. Stomach acid can also dissolve hydroxyapatite crystallites from tooth enamel, which occurs in cases of reflux, frequent vomiting during pregnancy or bulimia and can cause sensitive teeth.

There are various bacteria in the mouth that are necessary for a healthy oral flora. However, if the diet is unbalanced, harmful bacteria can dominate the biofilm, which leads to gum inflammation. A bacterial plaque builds up particularly in the spaces between the teeth and on the gum line, which, if not brushed regularly, can cause gingivitis, which often leads to receding gums.

Patients with sensitive teeth or gum problems tend to neglect brushing their teeth, which encourages plaque buildup and the development of tartar that can only be removed by a dentist. If left untreated, this can lead to worsening gum inflammation and ultimately periodontitis. Periodontitis affects the entire periodontal ligament, including the bone, and requires lifelong treatment. Patients with periodontitis often have sensitive tooth necks.

Tooth enamel and gums can also be damaged by excessive dental care. Pressing the toothbrush too hard, especially with hard bristles, or brushing immediately after eating acidic foods can do more harm than good. An incorrect brushing technique can wear away tooth enamel and injure the gums, leading to exposed tooth necks and sensitive teeth. Bleeding gums during daily care can be a sign of gingivitis or incorrect technique and should be examined by a dentist. Ultrasonic toothbrushes therefore offer a very good alternative to conventional toothbrushes, as they use ultrasonic technology to clean without scrubbing.

Mechanical pressure can also cause sensitive teeth, especially from teeth grinding. When teeth are ground, the teeth rub against each other continuously, causing tooth damage and exposed dentin, which is sensitive to pain. Many people grind their teeth unconsciously or at night. This phenomenon, known as bruxism, is diagnosed by the dentist. The pressure when grinding teeth is often much higher and longer lasting than when chewing, causing long-term damage to tooth enamel.

Teeth whitening methods are now not only performed at the dentist, but also at home. Bleaching often involves the use of hydrogen peroxide, which removes colorants and fluid from the tooth, temporarily leading to "dry" tooth enamel and irritated gums. Pain may occur when the tooth comes into contact with saliva, but this subsides after a few days. Patients with sensitive teeth should definitely consult their dentist before undergoing such treatments, as sensitivity to pain may otherwise increase.

Treatment for sensitive teeth aims to alleviate the causes of sensitivity. To effectively treat the discomfort and prevent future problems, different approaches should be considered depending on the sensitivity and individual circumstances:

The right toothpaste for sensitive teeth: Toothpastes specifically designed for sensitive teeth often contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help block the transmission of pain from the tooth surface to the nerve. These toothpastes form a protective barrier over the exposed dentinal tubules, thereby reducing sensitivity. Our Nature toothpaste is suitable for sensitive teeth and not only relieves pain but also offers long-lasting protection.

Fluoride treatments: Applications of fluoride can strengthen and remineralize tooth enamel, improving protection against external stimuli. Many dentists recommend fluoride gel applications or the application of fluoride varnishes to harden the tooth surface and effectively reduce sensitivity. These measures are especially important when teeth are attacked by acid exposure.

Suitable toothbrush with gentle brushing technique: The use of a ultrasonic toothbrush and a gentle brushing technique are crucial to avoid further abrasion of the tooth enamel and to avoid irritating the gums. It is important to avoid aggressive scrubbing as it can damage the gums and increase sensitivity. Instead, brush with light, circular movements to effectively clean the teeth while protecting them. With ultrasonic toothbrushes, there is no need to scrub at all and the toothbrush only needs to be held to the tooth.

Avoid acidic foods: Acids in food and drink can weaken tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. It is advisable to minimize consumption of acidic foods and drinks and to rinse your mouth with water after consumption to neutralize the acid residue and thus protect the tooth enamel. Mouth guards for teeth grinding: If teeth grinding (bruxism) is the cause of your sensitivity, a dental guard fitted by your dentist can be worn at night. This protects the teeth from further wear caused by grinding and can therefore help to reduce sensitivity.

Regular professional teeth cleaning: Professional dental cleanings are essential to remove plaque and tartar that can build up despite good home care. These cleanings, which should be performed at least twice a year during a dental appointment, not only reduce the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease, but are also crucial to keeping gums healthy and minimizing gum recession. Such measures protect against the most common causes of tooth sensitivity and improve overall oral hygiene.

Balanced diet: A balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphate and vitamins strengthens teeth from within. Avoiding excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks, which can erode tooth enamel, is also important. Instead, choose a tooth-healthy diet that protects tooth enamel and makes teeth less prone to sensitivity.