Sensitive teeth ( dentin hypersensitivity ) affect approximately 30–35% of adults worldwide—that is, almost one in three people.【bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com†L1-L5】
People between 30 and 50 years of age are particularly frequently affected, with sensitivity peaking in women during pregnancy. Tooth sensitivity tends to decrease with age.【link.springer.com†L10-L20】
Symptoms & most common triggers – when sensitive teeth really hurt
Sensitive teeth do not always become noticeable immediately – but many sufferers describe the pain as short, sharp and sudden , especially when the teeth are exposed to certain stimuli.
Studies show that there are three main triggers that most frequently cause complaints in practice:
- Cold – whether drinking ice-cold water, enjoying ice cream, or simply inhaling cold air: Almost half of all patients with dentin hypersensitivity react with an unpleasant pulling sensation.【link.springer.com†L10-L20】
- Chemical stimuli (acids) – Acidic foods such as vinegar, citrus fruits, pineapple, fruit juices, or soft drinks attack tooth enamel and further sensitize the teeth, making them even more sensitive to cold or air. [opendentistryjournal.com†L1-L5]
Heat, on the other hand, is described in studies as a less intense stimulus —while it causes movement in the dentinal tubules, it causes significantly less pain. [mdpi.com†L1-L5] Sweet foods alone are considered a less common trigger, but in combination with cold or acid, they can increase sensitivity.
👉 This means that sensitive teeth don't react randomly , but rather in a very specific way – and the classic everyday situations are clear: a glass of cold water, the fresh winter air, or an acidic snack. It's precisely in these moments that the importance of stable, remineralized tooth enamel becomes apparent.
What are the causes of sensitive teeth?