Most of the time they get sensitive because part of the tooth
root is showing. Exposed root surface means that hot and cold
feelings can reach the nerve of the tooth easier causing
sensitivity from the nerve of the tooth. Brushing to hard, in the
wrong direction or with whiting toothpaste can cause this
sensitivity. This is not to be confused with pain when drinking or
eating hot or cold things. Pain could indicate an infection in the
nerve of a tooth. And needs to be treated with anti-biotics and
root canal treatment or extraction.