Tooth sensitivity usually manifests as a sharp bolt of pain in a tooth when biting or chewing food. The sensation happens because damaged enamel exposes nerves in the tooth’s interior which sends pain signals to the brain.
The pain fades upon the removal of the stimulus from the tooth. Although the pain is intermittent, it should not be ignored. Oral pain of any kind could point to a serious underlying problem and warrants attention from a dental professional.
Plus, you should not have to endure the discomfort of sensitive teeth. Treatment for this symptom will vary depending on the cause of the issue. Read on to learn details about why you should seek an evaluation from your dentist if you feel tooth sensitivity pain.
Prevent Poor Oral Habits
Tooth sensitivity may come and go, but it can feel excruciating when it happens. This may cause you to alter the way that you bite and chew so that you avoid aggravating the damaged tooth.
As a result, you might disrupt your diet. And unbalanced pressure on the jaw when chewing awkwardly could lead to strain in the joint there. You may develop temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), which can lead to chronic jaw pain and stiffness.
Prevent TMJ, get rid of discomfort, and enjoy the ability to consume your favorite foods and beverages without worry once again by treating tooth sensitivity promptly. Contact your dentist before your next routine check-up if you experience tooth pain.
Treat Oral Health Problems Promptly
Tooth sensitivity points to damage or weakness within the outer layer of your tooth. Sometimes, this dental damage accrues due to wear and tear. But in other instances, underlying dental issues can harm your enamel.
One of the most common reasons you might feel tooth sensitivity is a cavity. This early form of tooth decay develops when oral bacteria erode your enamel to create a hole in the tooth’s surface. This decay will worsen without dental treatment, so make sure you treat the issue right away.
Tooth sensitivity can also happen as a result of gum disease. Advanced gum disease may lead to gum recession, meaning the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, revealing more of its surface. This thinner part of the enamel does not have as much protection because it was not meant to be exposed, and then you can feel sensitivity pain.
Gum disease requires periodontal therapy from a dentist to get rid of the infection. It is easier to treat when diagnosed early, so tell your dentist about any symptoms that might point to this dental concern.
Tooth sensitivity might also happen if you suffer an injury, like a broken tooth. Not all tooth breakage has a visible crack or chip. But it can still put your oral health at risk without urgent dental care.
Sensitivity pain can also form if you sustain damage to existing dental work, like a worn filling or a broken dental crown. Because the causes of tooth sensitivity can vary, you will need to speak to your dentist to find relief.