When you try to dig into anything hot or cold, do you feel a sudden sharp discomfort? This is tooth sensitivity, and it can get in the way of your daily living. You might be annoyed with how it makes eating more uncomfortable, but is it something you should have an urgent visit for? Here’s more about this situation and whether it’s a dental emergency that needs to be handled immediately.
What’s Making My Teeth Sensitive?
It’s always good to find the underlying cause for tooth sensitivity first. It often happens when your enamel is weakened. The dentin underneath becomes exposed, and it has channels that go down to the nerve. Anything high or low in temperature can trigger it, leading to the pain you might be familiar with.
The outer layer of your smile can erode because of the bacteria in your mouth. They produce an acid that dissolves it when they eat sugar particles left behind after your meals. Any foods or drinks that are acidic can also do this. Gum disease is another cause, as it can make your gumline recede and expose the roots of your teeth.
So, Do I Need an Urgent Visit for My Tooth Sensitivity?
The good news is that tooth sensitivity typically isn’t anything to overly stress about. If it’s inconsistent and doesn’t stay for long, then you may be able to wait until your next checkup and cleaning. You might be able to handle it at home by using desensitizing toothpaste to fortify your enamel and put a pause on any whitening products you use. Changing your diet to avoid anything hot, cold, acidic, and sugary can also be helpful.
That said, if you have any of these happen along with your discomfort, then you should see your dentist as soon as possible:
- Sensitivity lasts for 15 seconds or longer.
- You see visible damage to your enamel.
- There’s a noticeable dark spot.
- Your gumline is receding or pulling away from your teeth.
- There are signs of infection, like bleeding and inflammation.
If you have any of the symptoms above, then there may be an underlying oral health issue for your sensitivity, like a cavity or infection. By getting it checked out right away, you can get back the comfortable smile you deserve to flaunt.
About the Practice
Has your smile been hurting more often? Our team at Canyon Creek Family Dentistry of Richardson is here to help with a wide range of treatments. We offer same-day urgent visits for when you need it most. Our compassionate dentist will use state-of-the-art technology to find the cause and give you an effective solution. If you are worried about your grin, schedule an appointment or call our office at 972-644-3800.