Nothing gets your attention faster than a sudden jolt of tooth pain. One minute, you’re enjoying a glass of iced tea; the next, you’re grabbing your cheek and wondering what happened. Whether you brush it off or panic, stop before you do anything else. Not every situation is a dental emergency, but you can never be too careful with your oral health. Learn the warning signs of tooth sensitivity and when to see your emergency dentist.
Tooth Sensitivity: What Causes It?
That throbbing pain inside your tooth is an unwelcome guest, one that you want to be rid of as quickly as possible. But before you take steps to send it on its way, it’s important to understand how it occurred in the first place.
Most causes of tooth sensitivity develop because of:
- Thinning enamel caused by bruxism (teeth grinding), smoking, bite misalignment, etc.
- Excessive teeth whitening treatment
- A damaged tooth (crack, chip, or break)
- A severe cavity
- Gum recession
- An infection or abscess
Warning Signs: When Sensitivity Is an Emergency
Most cases of tooth sensitivity don’t require same-day, emergency treatment. It can fade quickly, which is why so many patients don’t bother calling their dentist’s office. This isn’t true in all situations, however. Instead of ignoring tooth sensitivity, call and let your team know so they can decide how soon you should come in.
Some of the clearest warning signs of sensitivity that warrant an emergency visit include:
- The pain continues to throb throughout the night, making it hard to sleep.
- There is visible damage to your tooth.
- You notice bleeding that is unrelated to brushing and flossing.
- Your tooth feels loose.
How is Tooth Sensitivity Treated?
If you need an emergency dental appointment, your dentist will assess the tooth and take X-rays to see areas below the gumline. Once they identify the source of your sensitivity, they will create a treatment plan and present it for your review. How they treat the problem depends on the severity and underlying cause, so you may receive:
- A recommendation for a desensitizing toothpaste
- A root canal to address a tooth infection that is impacting the interior pulp
- A dental crown to protect a damaged tooth
- A dental filling to fix a cavity
- Gum disease treatment to address recession and infection within the soft tissues
Your teeth can get your attention quickly, so if you experience prolonged discomfort, don’t wait. Always trust your instincts and never hesitate to call your emergency dentist for help.
About Grand Dental – Oz Park
Grand Dental – Oz Park dentists and specialists want to help you feel better. When sensitivity makes it hard to eat or drink, you may wonder what you can do to fix the problem. Let one of our talented experts assess your situation and recommend a treatment option to relieve the pain and help you enjoy a more comfortable smile. Need help with a sudden jolt of pain? Visit our website or call (773) 871-3393 for an emergency appointment today.