When it comes to interpersonal relationships, sensitivity can be a good thing. It helps you be more empathetic and understanding, and it even helps make everything from art to literature more enjoyable. But when it comes to your teeth, it isn’t always a plus. Tooth sensitivity can make enjoying hot or cold beverages downright uncomfortable, and it can even strike simply by opening your mouth.
Unfortunately, however, tooth sensitivity can be tricky. It can come and go, or it can be constant, and just because it’s either of those things doesn’t mean there’s anything to worry about. If you’re experiencing any discomfort when you consume certain foods or any other time, here’s how you can determine if that sensation is a dental emergency.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
When it comes to sensitive teeth, there can be many different triggers. These can include anything from your diet to your oral health. Foods that could cause this reaction include items that are:
- Acidic (such as citrus fruits, coffee, or drinks with citric acid)
- Hot
- Cold
If your teeth are in good health, this sensitivity should be temporary and usually go away until you consume them again, however if you find that this is happening more frequently than you’d like, you may want to consider switching to a sensitive toothpaste. These products contain an added boost of minerals that rebuild your tooth enamel, making it harder for trigger foods to get to the dentin in your teeth and cause a reaction.
Teeth Whitening
Another common cause of temporary tooth sensitivity is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can lift many layers of stains from your teeth; however, it can also remove some of the minerals protecting them from sensitivity. Thankfully, this side-effect usually goes away on its own within a week of your whitening treatment, however you can speed up the recovery process with sensitivity toothpaste.
Oral Health Issues
Unfortunately, not all sensitivity is temporary. In fact, sometimes it can be the sign of a larger problem looming. For example, if you have gum disease, receding gums, a cavity, a tooth infection, or a broken tooth, this can cause your teeth to hurt when eating, drinking, brushing, or at any other time. If you notice any of these issues or if you cannot figure out why your teeth are suddenly sensitive, consult your dentist for an emergency appointment.
How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
It’s likely that you will experience some tooth sensitivity (whether temporary or due to injury) at some point in your life, but there are still a few important ways to lower your risk:
- Brush and floss daily
- Use sensitive toothpaste
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Avoid highly acidic foods and beverages
- Avoid excessively hot or cold foods and beverages
- Visit your dentist twice a year for your semi-annual exam and cleanings
When to Seek Help
If you notice that you are experiencing sensitivity when consuming certain foods and beverages but only at those times, first try a sensitive toothpaste and see if that helps. If after a few weeks the problem persists, make sure to mention it at your next dental exam.
If you are experiencing any other symptoms besides sensitivity such as bleeding, throbbing pain, swelling, loose teeth, or a broken tooth, schedule an emergency dental appointment at once.
Remember, it’s normal for your teeth to experience sensitivity occasionally. However, if you are experiencing it along with any pain or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for an urgent evaluation.
About Dr. Patel
Dr. Anil Patel loves helping people and getting to know his patients on a personal level. He is proud to provide compassionate care in a friendly, welcoming environment, and he is always looking to expand his skills to give his patients the highest possible level of service.
Dr. Patel has amassed well over 250 hours of CE credit and enjoys learning more about cosmetic dentistry and dental implantology. He is a proud Fellow of the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA), and a member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association.
To schedule an emergency appointment at Studio Dental of Chisholm Trail, please visit our website or call us today at 817-717-6788.