Short answer: Temperature sensitivity usually means the inner part of your tooth (dentin) is being stimulated. That can happen when enamel thins from grinding, acid erosion, or over-brushing, when gums recede and expose the root, or when there’s a cavity or crack. A custom guard protects if grinding is part of your story—then you’ll calm acids, switch to a desensitizing toothpaste, and see your dentist if pain lingers. MouthHealthy
This article supports our [Jaw & Teeth-Grinding Pain: Complete Guide to Relief & Prevention] (see related links).
Quick check: when to call the dentist
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Sharp, pinpoint pain in one tooth (possible crack/cavity).
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Lingering pain after the hot/cold is gone.
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Sudden sensitivity after recent dental work that doesn’t fade in 1–2 weeks.
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Visible gum recession or a broken filling/crown.
A dentist can find (and fix) the underlying cause. Cleveland Clinic
What’s actually happening inside the tooth
Beneath enamel is dentin—a living layer full of tiny tubules. When enamel thins or roots are exposed, hot/cold travel through those tubules and fire up the nerve, causing that zing.
Common reasons dentin gets exposed
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Attrition (tooth-to-tooth wear) from grinding/clenching.
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Erosion (chemical wear) from acidic drinks, reflux, or frequent snacking.
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Abrasion (mechanical wear) from hard brushing or abrasive pastes.
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Gum recession (roots aren’t protected by enamel).
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Cavities or cracks (pathway to the nerve).
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Dental procedures/whitening (usually temporary sensitivity).
Tooth Sensitivity: Common Causes & Best First Steps
| Cause | What it looks/feels like | First steps at home | See a dentist if… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grinding / Clenching (Bruxism) | • Morning jaw tightness or headaches • Flattened/shortened edges; wear facets • Partner hears grinding at night |
• Custom night guard; thin day guard if you clench • “Lips together, teeth apart” reminders • Sleep hygiene / stress reduction |
• Pain worsens or bite changes • Cracks/chips appear |
| Acid Erosion (Diet / GERD) | • Thinned/transparent edges • Sensitivity after sodas/citrus; reflux symptoms • “Cupped” dentin on chewing surfaces |
• Keep acids to meals; don’t sip all day • Rinse with water; wait ~60 min to brush • Discuss reflux care with your clinician |
• Rapid wear or enamel loss • Ongoing reflux or frequent vomiting |
| Abrasion (Over-brushing / Pastes) | • Notches near the gumline • Receded areas feel scratchy/sensitive • History of hard brushing |
• Switch to a soft brush + gentle circles • Use desensitizing toothpaste • Avoid abrasive whitening pastes |
• Sensitivity persists or worsens • Visible gum loss or root exposure |
| Gum Recession (Exposed Root) | • Teeth look longer; triangle spaces • Temperature/touch sensitivity • May coincide with grinding or brushing |
• Desensitizing toothpaste; gentle brushing • Address grinding if present (custom guard) • Avoid aggressive flossing/picks |
• Rapid gum changes or tooth mobility • Localized deep pain or swelling |
| Crack or Cavity | • Sharp, pinpoint pain on one tooth • Lingering ache after hot/cold/sweets • Pain on bite or release |
• Protect area; avoid extreme temps • OTC pain relief as directed • Schedule an exam promptly |
• This is a dental issue—don’t wait • Risk of fracture/infection increases |
| Post-Whitening Sensitivity | • Generalized hot/cold “zing” after whitening • Usually multiple teeth; short-lived |
• Pause whitening; use desensitizing toothpaste • Shorter/fewer sessions next time |
• Sensitivity doesn’t fade in 1–2 weeks • Severe pain or single-tooth symptoms |
Educational graphic only; not a diagnosis. For persistent or severe sensitivity, see your dentist.
Is grinding part of your story?
Clues include morning jaw tightness, flattened tooth edges, or partners hearing grinding at night. Grinding/clenching (bruxism) is common—awake or asleep—and it wears enamel, making dentin more reactive. Protect first; then work on habits. NIDCR
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Read next: How do I know if I’m grinding at night?
Your action plan (match the fix to the cause)
1) If you grind/clench → protect the enamel
A custom night guard (and a thin day guard if you brace during the day) puts a barrier between teeth and spreads force so enamel doesn’t keep thinning.
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Decide: Upper vs. lower guard
2) If acids are in the mix → change timing, not just items
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Keep acidic drinks/foods to meals; don’t sip all day.
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Rinse with water after acids and wait ~1 hour to brush so you’re not scrubbing softened enamel.
3) If nerves are reactive → soothe, don’t scrub
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Switch to desensitizing toothpaste (potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride) and a soft brush; gentle circles, no pressure.
4) If there’s a structural issue → treat it
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Cavity, crack, or failing filling needs a dental fix—delaying can make sensitivity worse.
Whitening made me sensitive—normal?
Often yes. Whitening agents can temporarily increase permeability, making temperature changes more noticeable. Pause treatments, use a desensitizing paste, and resume under guidance once symptoms settle. Amerikan Hastanesi
Related reading (pain pillar)
Editor’s note
Updated September 9, 2025: clarified causes, added pain-pillar links, and included evidence-based care tips (desensitizing toothpaste, acid-timing, and when to see a dentist).