Tooth sensitivity. It can be quite uncomfortable and often catches you off guard. This discomfort could range from a mild ache to a sharp, sudden pain that occurs when enjoying your favorite ice cream or sipping hot coffee. But is this a situation that requires an emergency trip to the dentist? Continue reading to find out what causes tooth sensitivity and when it’s time to seek urgent dental care.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Your teeth are made up of three layers: the enamel, dentin, and pulp. The enamel is the outermost layer, while the dentin layer underneath contains tiny tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve endings in the pulp chamber. When the enamel wears down due to cavities, gum recession, or other factors, these nerve endings can become exposed to external stimuli, causing sensitivity.
When to See an Emergency Dentist
While occasional tooth sensitivity is often manageable with good oral hygiene or special desensitizing toothpaste, there are situations where it indicates a more serious problem. You should contact your dentist right away if your experience the following:
Sudden and Severe Sensitivity
If you experience a sudden onset of extreme tooth sensitivity with no clear cause, it might indicate a serious dental issue. Issues like cracked teeth, advanced dental decay, or a tooth infection could be to blame. If you’ve missed your regular dental checkups, it’s time to schedule an appointment for a thorough examination.
Persistent Pain
Does your tooth sensitivity linger despite avoiding foods and drinks that trigger pain? Is desensitizing toothpaste not working? If so, this might be a sign of a deeper issue. Persistent pain could point to an infection, decay, or another problem that needs professional treatment. Be sure to seek prompt dental care. Otherwise, ignoring ongoing discomfort could lead to more extensive and costly dental procedures later on.
Swelling or Inflammation
Signs of swelling, redness, or inflammation around a sensitive tooth indicate a potential infection or abscess. These symptoms require immediate attention to prevent the spread of infection and manage pain effectively.
Post-Dental Work Sensitivity
Experiencing sensitivity after a recent dental procedure like a filling, crown, or root canal can sometimes be normal, but it might also signal complications. If pain persists despite taking over-the-counter pain relievers, you should contact your dentist for an emergency follow-up appointment.
While mild tooth sensitivity might not always be an emergency, certain symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re unsure whether your tooth sensitivity warrants urgent care, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and make an appointment. Taking swift action can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems and help you avoid more expensive treatments down the line.
About the Practice
Revival Dentistry is dedicated to keeping you smiling through any dental emergency. With our comprehensive services, we can address urgent issues quickly and effectively. From tooth extractions to root canals, we provide the care you need in one convenient location. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, schedule an emergency appointment via our website or call (708) 991-5988.