CarolinasDentist Blog

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Brunette woman cringes in pain and touches her cheek due to sensitive teeth against a pink wall

Do your teeth feel sensitive when you bite down, chew, or eat hot or cold foods and beverages? There are many factors that could be causing your tooth sensitivity. Read on to explore different causes for sensitive teeth. We also suggest some remedies to reduce sensitivity.

  • Improper Brushing

If you brush your teeth too roughly or use a hard-bristled brush, you may be damaging and wearing down your enamel. When enamel weakens, your teeth are more sensitive. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and less force when cleaning your teeth.

  • Cavities

When bacteria consume your dietary sugar, they create acidic byproducts that damage your tooth enamel. Permanently damaged enamel results in a hole, called a cavity. Decay and cavities can cause sensitive teeth and lead to infection.

  • Gum Recession

Receding gums can be caused by a variety of factors, including aggressive brushing or gum disease. Gum recession exposes tooth roots which can make teeth very sensitive to hot and cold drinks, cold air, acidic foods, and more.

  • Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Do you have a chipped or cracked tooth? If so, your sensitive inner tooth may be exposed. Bacteria can also enter your tooth, causing a painful infection. Root canal therapy or a dental crown may be needed to repair and protect your tooth.

  • Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding wears away at your teeth over time and can lead to enamel erosion and severe tooth damage. If you suffer from teeth grinding and clenching, we recommend getting fitted for a custom nightguard to protect your teeth. This cushion between your teeth will prevent long-lasting damage and reduce sensitivity.

  • Whitening Products

Bleaching gel can cause teeth to become temporarily sensitive. While the mechanism is not entirely understood, the bleaching products may cause mild demineralization of the enamel. However, this resolves within a day or two.

If you are suffering from severe tooth sensitivity, one of our CarolinasDentist offices can help reduce your pain. Schedule an appointment with our team to determine the cause of your sensitive teeth and how to treat them. Contact us today!

CONTACT US

Related Posts

Back To Top

Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

Choose your location:      

Select Office To Make Payment To