Compared to an intense toothache, you might think tooth sensitivity is harmless. After all, don’t all body parts get sensitive now and again? Surely your delicate teeth, then, aren’t a big deal. However, the truth is that tender pearly whites can point to a dental emergency. Leaving them untended, therefore, may put you at risk of oral problems. Still, your local dentist can help prevent such issues. To that end, here’s a summary of how to tell if a sensitive tooth (or teeth) needs emergency care.
It Depends on the Cause
With little exception, teeth get sensitive when they lose their enamel covering. That loss exposes their underlying dentin, a weak tooth layer that lets sensations reach dental nerves. The result is that pearly whites with little enamel react poorly to hot or cold temperatures and certain acids.
As for how teeth lose their enamel surface, there are various possible causes. Common ones include:
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Fractured teeth
- Bruxism or tooth grinding
- Damaged restorations (i.e., fillings, crowns, etc.)
- Gum disease (due to causing gum recession)
- Exposed tooth root(s)
When is Sensitivity Urgent?
Given its causes, most tooth sensitivity doesn’t need urgent care. It’s typically harmless and quickly fades on its own. Of course, you should still monitor it to ensure things don’t worsen.
That said, see a dentist for sensitive teeth if their pain is sharp or persistent. Sensitivity that lasts for weeks or disrupts daily life needs immediate care. In such cases, you may have a tooth infection or serious dental damage. As such, delaying treatment could lead to tooth or even jawbone loss.
If you aren’t sure either way, play it safe and visit your local practice.
How Can an Emergency Dentist Help?
An emergency dentist has several ways to fix sensitive teeth. They are the following:
- Fluoride Treatment – By placing fluoride gel on your teeth, dentists can reduce the transmission of sensations. In other words, they could essentially numb your chompers.
- Dental Crowns – A dentist could also place a dental crown that covers the sensitive area. The result would be a tooth with less exposed dentin.
- Root Canal Therapy – A dentist could perform a root canal if your sensitivity is severe and can’t be treated by other means. This option would remove any infected tissue that’s prompting your ache.
Tooth sensitivity is normal enough, but it can turn dangerous if you aren’t careful. Therefore, consider seeing your dentist for treatment.
About the Practice
Gannett Drive Dental is based in South Portland, ME. Led by Drs. Kivus, our practice strives to give patients warm and personalized care. To that end, we perform custom treatments that span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as dental emergency procedures. You can also count on us for night guards and even Invisalign clear aligners. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or call us at (207)-253-5600.