If biting into ice cream sends a jolt of pain through your tooth, you could be suffering from tooth sensitivity. This condition is often a symptom of a larger dental problem and should be examined by a dentist promptly.
Tooth pain of any kind is abnormal, and you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible if you notice sensitivity. The dental team at Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Garner, NC provides further information about emergency dental treatment for tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the outer layer of your tooth, enamel, begins to thin or weaken and exposes the underlying dentin. Dentin contains nerves that send pain signals to your brain when stimulated by exterior elements.
Enamel can wear away for a number of reasons, including tooth decay, gum disease, broken teeth, or worn fillings. Enamel cannot grow back on its own, but your dentist can offer treatment for your symptoms, depending on the root cause.
Should I Schedule an Emergency Dentist Appointment?
Pain levels can differ when it comes to tooth sensitivity, ranging from mild to severe. However, tooth pain at any level should not be something you should endure.
Even if you find this symptom bearable, you should schedule an emergency dentist appointment because it could be a signifier of a larger dental problem. If left untreated, these issues could worsen and lead to tooth loss or other major concerns.
What Treatment Will Work Best for My Symptoms?
Treatment plans may vary depending on the reason you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. Mild cases may be treated with desensitizing toothpaste, often purchased from local shops.
More severe instances can require restorative dental work. If a cavity causes this pain, your dentist can remove the decay and treat it with a filling.
Advanced gum disease can be treated with periodontal therapy promptly to avoid gum recession, which can expose more of your tooth’s surface. Broken teeth or worn fillings will need a dental crown to cover the affected tooth and replace the lost enamel.
Emergency Dentistry Available in Garner, NC
Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers emergency care for patients in Garner, NC. Our practice specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 919.238.3470.