Tooth sensitivity can be quite an alarming experience, especially if it comes out of nowhere. The good news is that thankfully it isn’t always a dental emergency. Still, if you do notice any sudden discomfort, it’s best to rule out any dangerous oral health conditions just to be safe. Here are a few common reasons why you might be experiencing tooth sensitivity, and when you should consider unexpected pain an urgent dental problem.
Non-Emergency Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
There are many reasons why your teeth may become sensitive, even seemingly out of nowhere. Most of the time, it is caused when there’s damage to the enamel that lets something hot, cold, or acidic into the inner nerves of the tooth. Enamel is the outer layer that protects the dentin, which is the softer tissue portion of the tooth where its nerves are housed. Enamel damage can be caused by a variety of things, including:
- Tooth grinding (bruxism)
- Small cracks or chips in the tooth
- Enamel erosion
- Cavities
- Gum recession
- Teeth whitening products
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity due to any of the above, it is likely not a dental emergency, however it is still important to be treated by your dentist as soon as possible for all except sensitivity due to teeth whitening. If you are experiencing any discomfort following the use of whitening chemicals, this should go away in less than a week after you stop using them. To help make this time as brief as possible, many patients find success using a sensitive toothpaste temporarily to rebuild the minerals in their enamel and protect the dentin from outside stimuli such as hot or cold beverages or foods.
Emergency Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
While thankfully not all causes of tooth sensitivity are considered a dental emergency, unfortunately some are. These include:
- Tooth infections
- Loose tooth
- Visible damage such as a large chip or crack
- Oral bleeding
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please call your emergency dentist as soon as possible for urgent assistance, as these problems have the potential to worsen if not treated promptly.
Avoiding Tooth Sensitivity
While it may not be possible to completely avoid tooth sensitivity, there are still a few things you can do to reduce your risk of it starting or lessen the severity of continuing sensitivity. These include:
- Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Using sensitive toothpaste
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages
Remember, not all tooth sensitivity is a dental emergency, but it’s very important that if you do notice any abnormal discomfort in your tooth that you schedule a visit with your dentist to have it examined. Hopefully whatever is causing your discomfort isn’t serious, but you can rest assured that no matter what is behind it, your dentist can help treat your tooth and help get your pain-free smile back.
About Dr. Muddana
Dr. Praveena Muddana graduated from Narayana Dental College in India and earned a second dental degree from the NYU College of Dentistry. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If you are experiencing a dental emergency such as sudden, unexplained tooth sensitivity, please contact Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry for an emergency appointment by calling us directly at 262-333-0540.