Tooth sensitivity generally results from irritation of the pulpal/nerve tissues in the tooth. It can also be irritations of the nerve in the tissue around the tooth - such as after grinding or physical trauma.

Any insult that penetrates past the enamel layer (for example - a fracture, wear, a cavity, or extreme temperature change), or is introduced in an area where there is no enamel (e.g. exposed root, a fractured or eroded tooth surface) results in fluid movement in tiny tubules in the dentin layer, which communicate directly with the nerve.

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