If you experience tooth sensitivity, you may think it’s not a big deal. After all, aren’t little aches and pains a normal part of life? Surely sensitive teeth won’t cause major problems. In truth, though, this issue can sometimes stem from serious causes. As such, you should know when it warrants an emergency dental visit. Luckily enough, your Harrisonburg dentist can give you the details. Here’s how to tell whether a sensitive tooth needs emergency dental care.
Consider the Sensitivity’s Causes
In general, teeth get sensitive when they lose their protective covering. As that happens, a tooth’s dentin becomes exposed. In particular, its lower layers may allow heat and cold to reach the pearly white’s nerves and cells. The result is minor aches.
That said, dentin can be uncovered for various reasons. Common ones include:
- Tooth decay (i.e., cavities)
- Tooth fracture(s)
- Worn tooth enamel
- Damaged restorations (i.e., fillings, crowns, etc.)
- Gum disease (due to causing gum recession)
- Exposed tooth root(s)
Look for Signs of Urgency
Not all tooth sensitivity requires urgent care. In cases where the discomfort is short-lived, it’s likely harmless and doesn’t need major treatment. Still, you should monitor it to ensure it doesn’t worsen.
On the other hand, things change if the pain persists for more than a few days. Should that happen, you should see your dentist right away. The issue may signal that you have a cavity or deep infection, either of which is best treated immediately. At worst, delaying care could lead to complications like tooth loss and jawbone loss.
If you aren’t sure, play it safe and talk to your local dental practice.
Consult Your Dentist About Options
If your sensitivity does become severe, your dentist can offer various treatment options. The standard ones are:
- Fluoride Gel – This in-office service strengthens enamel, thus reducing the transmission of sensations. In other words, it essentially numbs your tooth.
- Dental Crowns – If the discomfort is due to a fracture, your dentist could place a dental crown that covers the sensitive area. That way, your dentin would be less exposed.
- Gum Grafts – Sometimes, tooth roots are exposed by receding gums. However, a gum graft could replace the lost tissue and re-cover these roots.
- Root Canal Therapy – This option is best when your sensitivity results from infection. It would remove your tooth’s infected pulp and then seal it back up.
While tooth sensitivity can be normal, it has the potential to be serious. Therefore, remember the tips above so your pearly whites stay healthy.
About the Practice
Harrisonburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is based in Harrisonburg, VA. As led by Drs. DeNicola and Khanna, our office has a deep passion for modern dentistry. Therefore, we perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments, as well as emergency care. Thanks to the latest dental technology, you can trust us for stellar results! For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (540)-432-6616.