Causes range from teeth grinding to the wrong toothpaste

" Periodontitis is a danger," says Dr. Dr. Thea Lingohr, dentist and oral surgeon from Cologne. "This is a bacterial inflammation of the gums, which recedes until the tooth necks are completely exposed." Grinding your teeth at night can also cause the gums to recede, as can pressing too hard when brushing. Even aggressive toothpaste that abrades the enamel can lead to sensitive teeth.

Sealing the teeth protects against tooth decay and pain

"I treat exposed tooth necks with a remineralizing fluoride varnish or a dentine sealant," explains Dr. Dr. Lingohr. "I recommend that my patients repeat this at least twice a year, as the sealant also protects the teeth from decay." Unfortunately, the health insurance doesn't pay. A splint protects the teeth against night-time grinding, and there are now special toothpastes for sensitive teeth in the drugstore.