If you ever noticed a jolt of pain from your tooth when taking a bite of ice cream, then you know the excruciation of tooth sensitivity. This condition is usually only noticeable if the tooth is stimulated by an external element, but sensitivity can still take its toll.
Even if it seems bearable, tooth pain of any kind should be evaluated by a dental professional promptly. Dr. Sahil Goyal, a dentist in Columbia, MD, provides more information about the unpleasant dental symptom, tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
The outermost layer of your tooth is called enamel. Over time, enamel can deteriorate due to poor oral hygiene, harsh brushing techniques, or factors outside of an individual’s control like aging. Once enamel is gone, it cannot regrow on its own.
Thin and weakened enamel can expose underlying dentin, which contains nerves that send pain signals to the brain when stimulated. The resulting pain is the condition of tooth sensitivity.
Is Tooth Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?
Tooth pain is abnormal and is therefore considered a dental emergency that should be checked by a dentist as soon as possible. If you think you can tolerate tooth sensitivity pain, you should still let your dentist know about it because it could be a symptom of a larger dental concern.
Cavities, advanced gum disease, and worn fillings could all contribute to tooth sensitivity. Issues like these require dental intervention to treat and alleviate tooth pain.
What Dental Treatment Will I Need?
Treatment for tooth sensitivity will differ depending on the root cause of the issue. Your dentist will discover the cause and therefore determine an appropriate treatment plan during an oral examination.
Minor sensitivity may be resolved by using desensitizing toothpaste. Your dentist can treat cavities by removing tooth decay and administering dental fillings.
Severe tooth damage may require restorative treatment with a dental crown. This ceramic cap can cover a tooth, shielding any exposed dentin and therefore relieving tooth sensitivity pain.
Emergency Dentistry Available in Columbia, MD
Columbia Family Dentist offers emergency dentistry services as well as preventative dental care for patients in Columbia, MD. Dr. Goyal also specializes in implant, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 410.670.8211.