Do you look forward to enjoying a steaming cup of coffee each morning? Do you love to sip on a tall glass of ice water after a long walk in the spring sunshine? You should be able to consume these beverages, and other hot and cold substances, without worrying that you’ll end up in pain. Unfortunately, many people have sensitive teeth that cause them to stay away from anything that is too hot or too cold. Let’s talk about what causes this problem and what you may be able to do about it.
The Science Behind Sensitive Teeth
Your teeth have multiple layers. The outermost layer is the enamel. Its job is to protect the interior sections of your teeth, including the dentin and pulp. If the enamel gets worn thin or develops a cavity, it’s easier for hot and cold temperatures to irritate a tooth’s inner layers. Then, the nerve inside the tooth sends pain signals to your brain.
It’s also possible for sensitivity to occur alongside gum recession. When the gums pull away from the teeth, the teeth’s roots become exposed. Since the roots don’t have enamel to protect them, they’re more susceptible to pain when they come into contact with hot and cold substances.
In most cases, a sensitivity-reducing toothpaste and/or a minor restorative dental treatment can enable you to start enjoying hot and cold treats again. Sometimes, though, tooth sensitivity is a sign that you could be heading for a dental emergency.
Don’t Ignore Sensitivity!
If you feel that the pain from your sensitive teeth isn’t too bad and that you don’t need to head to your dentist, you could be on the fast-track toward a serious oral health problem. If tooth decay or damage reaches the point where harmful bacteria infects a tooth’s pulp, the pulp can become inflamed and cause major pain. The infection could even spread into the surrounding tissue and lead to systemic illness. Dental treatment to remove the infection, along with antibiotic treatment, may be necessary to alleviate the problem.
Here are some signs that your tooth sensitivity has developed into a dental emergency:
- One tooth is much more sensitive to hot and cold than the teeth around it. The pain lingers even after the source of the temperature change is removed.
- A tooth is darker than the surrounding dentition.
- There is a pimple-like growth on your gums.
- You have a fever along with your toothache.
It’s best to visit your dentist as soon as you notice that your teeth are more sensitive than they used to be. Identifying and treating the problem as soon as possible can spare you from pain and help you avoid the stress and expense of extensive dental treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Griffith is a general and emergency dentist with decades of experience. Whether your teeth are mildly sensitive or you think you need urgent care, he is ready to help! Contact our team at 606-874-9311 to schedule an appointment or learn more about the services we offer.