OUCH! You take a sip of your morning coffee and immediately feel a painful ache spread throughout your mouth. Although the sensation subsides after a few minutes, the experience makes you wonder if you should schedule a same-day appointment with your dentist. After all, is tooth sensitivity really a dental emergency? Keep reading for the answer!
6 Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
To help you determine if your tooth sensitivity necessitates a visit with your emergency dentist, it is important to first understand the common causes. Below are five potential culprits:
- Tooth decay.
- Fractured or otherwise damaged teeth.
- Worn down enamel or fillings.
- Gum disease.
- Exposed tooth root.
- Certain medications or preexisting conditions.
Tooth Sensitivity: Dental Emergency or Not?
From mild aches to severe throbbing, any oral pain should result in a visit to your dentist’s office. However, if sensitivity is something you’ve struggled with for years and years, then you might be able to wait until your routine dental checkup and cleaning to discuss it with your dentist. However, if this is a new sensation, then you should definitely get in touch with your dental team right away. Putting it off can allow the damage to progress, potentially wreaking havoc on your teeth and gums. Therefore, it’s better to be safe than sorry and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Effective Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity
The goods news is that if you’ve been struggling with tooth sensitivity, treatment is available. Depending on the source of your irritation, your dental team may recommend:
- Using a desensitizing toothpaste.
- Adding a fluoride treatment to your six-month teeth cleanings.
- Using a crown, inlay, or bonding to fortify your tooth.
- Undergoing a surgical bone graft (which can protect the root of your tooth, reducing sensitivity).
- Getting a root canal.
Tooth sensitivity may be common, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. To ensure your teeth and gums are in good condition, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist so you can share your symptoms.
About the Author
Dr. Tammy Ton earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Marquette University School of Dentistry, and she has been using her passion for her craft and advanced training to help nearby patients get the pain-free smile they deserve ever since! She knows going to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do, which is why she goes above and beyond to provide preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care that is effective and enjoyable. If you are struggling with tooth sensitivity, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with her team via website or by phone at 972-698-5988.