Tooth sensitivity pain is often very recognizable. It can present as an excruciating jolting sensation in the tooth when biting into cold or sugary foods. This condition may seem intermittent and tolerable, but it could indicate a serious dental problem.
Tooth pain of any kind should not be ignored. Do not hesitate to let your dentist know if you experience tooth sensitivity. Dr. Elise Brace, a dentist serving patients in Cary, NC, provides further details about tooth sensitivity causation and emergency treatment that your dental professional may recommend.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity Pain?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the outer layer of your tooth, called enamel, wears down or thins to reveal underlying dentin, which contains nerves. These nerves dispense pain signals to the brain when stimulated, creating the harsh sensation of sensitivity pain.
The reason for weakened enamel may vary. It can stem from consuming acidic foods that erode the teeth, advanced tooth decay or gum disease, or damaged dental work. As the severity of the issue may vary depending on the cause, you should contact your dental professional if you notice this symptom.
Is Tooth Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?
Tooth pain of any kind is not normal and should not be something that a dental patient should tolerate until their next routine appointment with their dentist. You should report any pain or discomfort to your dentist as soon as possible.
They may recommend visiting their office for an emergency oral health evaluation. Prompt examination of the issue will allow the dentist to treat any problems swiftly and before further extensive damage can impact your teeth. If you want more information on our emergency dental services, please visit Emergency dentistry.
How Will My Dentist Treat Tooth Sensitivity?
The treatment you can anticipate from your dentist will depend on the dental concern causing the tooth sensitivity. For mild cases of enamel thinning, your dentist may suggest that you utilize a desensitizing toothpaste. This specific toothpaste contains ingredients that can block nerves from sending pain signals, thus alleviating sensitivity pain in the patient.
Patients may also experience tooth sensitivity if they have a cavity. Treating the cavity with a dental filling will remove the decay and the uncomfortable symptoms. More advanced tooth decay may require treatment with a dental crown.
If your dental work, such as a filling or crown, becomes loose or damaged, the interior of your tooth may become exposed and vulnerable to stimulation from exterior threats that will create sensitivity pain. Your dentist can repair the dental work during an emergency appointment to get rid of this pain and restore your smile.
Emergency Dentistry Services Available in Cary, NC
Kildaire Family and Cosmetic Dentistry provides optimal preventative and emergency dentistry services to patients in Cary, NC. Dr. Brace also specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions, for patients of all ages. To schedule a consultation or appointment with our practice, contact our staff by phone at 919.823.7107 or reach our office online.