When you bite into a delicious spoonful of ice cream, you look forward to the cold, creamy goodness. You don’t expect to wince in pain as soon as the icy treat hits a sensitive tooth.
If you’re like many people, sensitive teeth can be a problem at meal time. A twinge of pain can be triggered by cold or hot food and drink. If you have an extremely sensitive tooth, a sharp intake of cold air may even cause pain.
So what causes tooth sensitivity? There are myriad reasons why a tooth reacts to temperature fluctuations. Regardless of the reason, you should tell your dentist in St. Petersburg, FL about your pain when you come in for a routine exam. That way, the problem can be properly diagnosed and treated.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
The most common and least problematic sensitivity is an all-over response to a very cold stimulus. If the pain lasts for only a short time, you probably don’t have much reason for concern, but you should still tell your dentist or hygienist.
However, if the pain lasts for a long time and is centered on one tooth or area of your mouth, you could have a bigger underlying problem. There’s also a chance you have an infection if your tooth is sensitive to heat as well as cold and if you experience pain upon biting.
These types of sensitivity are frequently symptoms of a micro-crack, a cavity or a problem with an existing filling. If you fall into this category, make an appointment as soon as possible with Klement Family Dental to have the problem assessed. You may need general dentistry services like fillings, teeth crowns or possibly even a root canal or teeth implants to correct the problem.
Could Your Gums Be the Problem?
If your mouth aches and you can’t pinpoint the location, you could have a problem with your gums instead of a tooth. Gums can become painful if exposed to irritants or harsh treatment. If your gums recede, they can leave tooth roots exposed. And since the roots aren’t coated in enamel, the roots are much more sensitive to stimuli.
What can cause gums to recede? Brushing too forcefully, using chewing tobacco or allowing plaque to buildup can cause your gums to pull way from your teeth. This can cause sensitivity to temperatures. You might be able to spot the problem just by looking in the mirror. Look where your gums meet your teeth to see if you notice a change in color.
Tooth sensitivity can be an irritating problem or it can pose a threat to your overall oral health. Don’t let tooth sensitivity go undiagnosed. Be sure to mention it during your regular exams so we can treat it appropriately and help you enjoy the foods you love.
