Can tooth sensitivity go away on its own?

In rare cases yes, if dentine gradually scleroses internally. But waiting is not advisable. it's better to remove the cause with a dentist, otherwise the problem will progress.

Do sensitive toothpastes actually work?

Scientific evidence confirms the effectiveness of pastes with potassium nitrate and nano-hydroxyapatite. this is real chemistry, not marketing. The key is to use them for at least 8 consecutive weeks.

When is sensitivity a reason to see a dentist urgently?

If pain lasts longer than 30 seconds or occurs spontaneously without a trigger (cold, heat, acid). this is a sign of pulp inflammation. Do not delay.

Tooth Sensitivity: Why Cold Hurts and What to Do

This is dentine hypersensitivity. Dentinüberempfindlichkeit in German. You are not alone: according to scientific publications, 4 to 57% of adults suffer from it. Peak age: 20 to 40 years.

Good news: it can be treated. Bad news: it won't go away on its own if the cause is not addressed.

Why it happens: Brännström's theory

In the 1960s, Swedish dentist Martin Brännström proposed the theory we still use today. the hydrodynamic theory.

A tooth is not solid. Inside the dentine run thousands of microscopic tubules. dentinal tubules. Each contains fluid. Normally, the outside is protected by enamel or root cementum, and the fluid doesn't move.

But if the enamel is damaged or the gum has receded, the tubules are exposed. Contact with cold, heat, sweet, or acid causes rapid fluid movement. This presses on the nerve endings in the pulp. the brain interprets this as sharp pain. Brief. because the fluid quickly returns.

What causes exposed dentine

1

Gum recession (Zahnfleischrückgang)

The gum recedes, exposing the root. Causes: aggressive horizontal brushing, chronic periodontitis, malocclusion.

2

Enamel erosion

Acids destroy enamel silently: carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, acid reflux (GERD). Erosion occurs without pain. you don't feel the enamel dissolving.

3

Abrasion

A hard toothbrush combined with abrasive toothpaste. enamel wears away faster than it remineralises.

4

Whitening

High concentrations of hydrogen peroxide temporarily increase the diameter of dentinal tubules. Sensitivity after professional whitening is a normal, temporary reaction.

What the dentist does

Fluoride varnish (Fluoridlack)

Quick and effective. High-concentration fluoride (22,600 ppm) is applied to the tooth in the chair, literally sealing the tubule openings. Effect within minutes. Included in professional cleaning or done separately.

Adhesive sealants (Versiegelungsmittel)

Create a physical film over exposed dentine. Best option for significant gum recession.

Desensitisers with potassium nitrate

Potassium (K⁺) penetrates the tubules and blocks nerve impulses. The American Dental Association (ADA) has officially approved toothpastes with 5% potassium nitrate.

Soft tissue graft (Schleimhauttransplantat)

For significant recession. a surgeon transplants a mucosal flap from the palate onto the exposed root. Effective, but this is surgery.

What to do at home

🪥 Switch to a medium or soft toothbrush

🦷 Potassium nitrate toothpaste (Sensodyne, Elmex Sensitive). at least 8 consecutive weeks

💧 After acidic foods. rinse with water. Brush. after 30 minutes

↪️ Bass technique: brush at 45° to the gum, short circular strokes

If pain lasts longer than 30 seconds or appears spontaneously. this is no longer hypersensitivity, but pulp inflammation. See a dentist urgently.

Tooth Sensitivity: why cold hurts and what to do