If you feel a jolt of pain when biting into ice cream, you may suffer from tooth sensitivity. This sensation is unpleasant and could signify underlying dental problems that should be addressed by a dental professional.
Tooth pain of any kind is abnormal, and you should contact your dentist as soon as possible if you notice this symptom. Dr. Quinn Woodruff, a dentist in McLeansville, NC, addresses frequently asked questions in relation to tooth sensitivity.
Tooth Sensitivity FAQs
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel, the top layer of your tooth, thins or weakens, exposing the underlying layer of dentin. Dentin contains nerves that send pain signals to your brain when stimulated.
Enamel can become weak for a number of reasons, including:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Broken teeth
- Worn fillings
These dental conditions can happen due to age, neglected oral hygiene, or impact trauma. The treatment of tooth sensitivity is dependent on the underlying cause of this symptom.
Is This a Dental Emergency?
Soreness in your teeth, gums, or jaw is abnormal and should be examined by a dental professional as soon as possible. If you notice tooth sensitivity, you should call your dentist and schedule an emergency dental appointment.
Some patients may consider this pain to be bearable on their own. They should still visit their dentist because this discomfort can be a symptom of an underlying dental problem that requires treatment from a professional.
How Can I Treat Tooth Sensitivity?
Your dentist will examine your mouth during a dental appointment and consult your medical history to determine what may cause this tooth sensitivity. Treatment for this condition can vary depending on the origin of the symptom.
Mild cases of sensitivity may be treated with desensitizing toothpaste. Your dentist may recommend restorative dental work for more severe tooth sensitivity.
If the patient has a cavity, the dentist can remove tooth decay and give the patient a filling which should alleviate any painful symptoms. Patients with advanced gum disease may require periodontal therapy to eliminate the infection from their gums.
Broken teeth and worn fillings both require dental work, usually in the form of dental crowns. The crown covers the surface of the tooth, protecting dentin from stimulants and relieving tooth sensitivity.
Ask Your Dentist About Tooth Sensitivity in McLeansville, NC
McLeansville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers expert dentist care for conditions like tooth sensitivity for patients in McLeansville, NC. Dr. Woodruff specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 336.506.6545.