Tooth sensitivity can spell trouble for anyone, causing discomfort when they eat or drink. While it’s a common problem, many patients wonder if it’s an issue that requires immediate dental care. When exactly does the pain caused by sensitive teeth become a dental emergency? Continue reading to learn the causes of tooth sensitivity and when you should seek help.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity usually happens when your enamel wears down or your gums recede, exposing the inner part of your teeth. When weakened, your enamel fails to block the temperature and chemicals that come from hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. This triggers a warning pain response from the center of your tooth where the nerves are located. Other common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Tooth Decay: Cavities can create small openings in your enamel, leading to sensitivity.
- Tooth Grinding: Bruxism can wear down enamel and expose the underlying dentin.
- Dental Procedures: Recent dental work, such as fillings, cleanings, or other treatments can temporarily cause sensitivity.
- Cracked Teeth: Cracks in your tooth enamel offer a large opening for temperature extremes, acid, and sugar to reach exposed tooth structures.
When Does Tooth Sensitivity Become a Dental Emergency?
While tooth sensitivity is usually not an emergency, there are situations where immediate dental care could be necessary. If you experience any of these symptoms, it might be time to call your dentist:
- Severe Pain: Intense, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away might indicate a serious issue like an abscess or deep decay.
- Swelling or Fever: These symptoms suggest an infection, which requires swift treatment to prevent complications or illness.
- Persistent Sensitivity: If sensitivity lasts for more than a few days or worsens, it may be a sign of a larger problem needing professional attention.
- Visible Damage: A cracked or broken tooth can expose the nerves and should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Oral Bleeding: Bleeding gums in addition to tooth sensitivity could indicate an oral infection that needs to be treated quickly.
Tooth sensitivity can often be managed with proper care and attention. While it’s usually not an emergency, knowing the difference between a temporary spike and a serious issue could save your teeth. When in doubt, it’s best to call your dentist to make sure. There’s no harm in a false alarm, but an ignored dental emergency could be costly!
About the Practice
If you’re having a dental emergency in Little Rock, the team at Little Rock Family Dental Care can see you in a flash. Their knowledgeable and friendly dental experts are skilled at treating emergency situations, helping you to get out of pain and restore your smile quickly using advanced dental technology. Call (501) 514-9205 to schedule an emergency dental appointment or visit the website to explore other options.