Tooth sensitivity occurs when the dentine, which is normally protected by the gums, root cementum and tooth enamel, loses its natural protection and becomes exposed.
When the tooth loses its protective barrier due to gum recession and/or enamel wear, these tubules become open to external stimuli, allowing these to reach the nerve endings and trigger pain sensations.

Patients with tooth sensitivity typically experience pain characterised by the following:
Exaggerated pain in response to a mild sensory stimulus.
Duration of pain limited to the duration of contact with the stimulus.
Precise localisation of the affected tooth and the area of pain within the tooth.
Tooth sensitivity pain is typically triggered by various, easily recognisable stimuli:
Very cold or very hot foods and drinks
Sweet or acidic substances
Tooth brushing
Breathing cold air
Tactile pressure
If the pain occurs without a specific trigger, persists after the stimulus stops, or is not easily localised, it is likely not due to tooth sensitivity and may be related to an underlying condition, such as tooth decay.

Several factors can cause the exposure of dentinal tubules, leading to tooth sensitivity.
These are often linked to lifestyle choices and daily oral hygiene practices:
- Inadequate brushing techniques: using too much force, brushing too frequently, or using a highly abrasive toothpaste can wear down the enamel or cementum, exposing the dentine.
- Acidic foods and beverages (citrus juices, carbonated drinks, etc.) can erode tooth enamel, particularly at the neck of the tooth, through decalcification.
- Excessive chewing force (occlusal trauma, bruxism) or certain habits can cause enamel wear (attrition and/or abfraction), leading to dentine exposure.
- Periodontal treatments, especially surgeries, may reduce gum tissue, resulting in gum recession.
- Conditions or situations creating an acidic oral environment, such as stomach issues (ulcers, hiatal hernia, etc.), psychological disorders (bulimia, anorexia) or occupational factors (wine tasters, bakers, etc.).
- Gingival recession following dental treatments, including professional cleaning, basic periodontal treatment, or orthodontics, may also contribute to sensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity can be a highly uncomfortable condition that significantly impacts daily life.
First, people affected by it often avoid the triggers (such as acidic or sweet foods, certain temperatures, etc.) that cause discomfort, leading them to give up foods and drinks they enjoy.
More importantly, from a clinical perspective, those with tooth sensitivity may have poorer oral hygiene due to the pain experienced while brushing.
As a result, they devote less to brushing and achieve less effective cleaning, which allows bacterial plaque to build up. This, in turn, increases the risk of related conditions, such as cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis.