3. Harsh brushing.
Any abrasive technique can increase tooth sensitivity, Ribeiro says. Habits like, using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing your teeth aggressively can contribute to tooth sensitivity, the ADA states.
4. Tooth whitening.
Sensitivity can be a temporary side effect of a whitening treatment, but it can also result from using overly harsh whitening products or whitening teeth too frequently, the ADA says. You can help reduce your risk for tooth sensitivity by working with your dentist and following the manufacturer’s instructions on any whitening product, according to research published in June 2014 in the Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice.