You’re mid‑bite into a sandwich or enjoying a hot cuppa and—out of nowhere—you get that sharp, almost electric jolt through a tooth. It makes you pause, maybe even wince. A moment ago you were fine, and now you’re wondering what on earth just happened.
Most of us shrug it off the first time, but tooth sensitivity usually has a reason behind it. The sooner you figure it out, the less chance it has to turn into a bigger (and more expensive) problem.
Why a Tooth Can Suddenly Feel Different
Teeth are tougher than they look, but they’re not invincible. Enamel is the hard shell that keeps the nerve inside safe. When it gets worn down, or if part of the root is exposed, cold air, hot food, or even sweet treats can reach the sensitive part underneath.