Tooth Sensitivity – A Minor Issue or Dental Emergency?

Lately, have you bitten into something cold or hot, only to feel a sharp pain radiate throughout a tooth? If so, how can you figure out whether it’s a minor problem or a warning sign of a dental emergency? With COVID-19 disrupting the normal flow of life in America, it’s important to be able to determine what is a dental emergency so you don’t break quarantine unnecessarily. Here’s how to tell whether you need emergency care for your sensitivity or not.

Identifying any Triggers

In addition to consuming foods or beverages that have extreme temperatures, those with a high sugar content can cause discomfort. Furthermore, any heightened stress that has led to teeth grinding can cause bouts of pain. Until you can be seen by a dentist, consider implementing some stress relieving strategies like breathing techniques, exercise and meditation.

Other Contributors to Tooth Sensitivity

The following can result in discomfort or serious tooth pain:

• Tooth decay
• Worn fillings
• Gum disease
• Fractured teeth
• Exposed tooth root

What You Can Do to Reduce Minor Tooth Sensitivity

If your tooth sensitivity isn’t severe and continuous, here are some steps you can take to address it until you’re able to see your dentist:

• Use desensitizing toothpaste – Contains compounds that help block the transmission of pain from the tooth surface to the nerve
• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles – Helps to prevent any further damage to the enamel while still providing a means of thoroughly cleaning your teeth
• Limit your consumption of sugary items – To help avoid the accelerated growth of oral bacteria that could worsen the pain symptoms

Even though these methods can be helpful in delivering some temporary results, it’s important that as soon as dentists start providing regular and restorative care again, you setup a visit. Therefore, you can prevent what may be a minor problem from becoming a major dental emergency.

What to Do for a Dental Emergency

If you’re experiencing ongoing and acute pain, then you likely have a dental emergency on your hands. Usually, this is a sign of aggressive bacteria growth that has entered the more sensitive parts of your tooth. The last thing you want to do in such a situation is ignore the symptoms. Thankfully, you can count on an emergency dentist in your area to provide the vital care you need. By taking swift action, you can fully recover and prevent a future problem.

About the Author

Dr. Nancy Dysinger earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. With over 30 years of experience in the dental field, she has developed a reputation for providing compassionate, competent and effective care. During the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Dysinger is available to provide the emergency dental care you need to restore your oral health at McComb Family Dental. She can be reached for more information through her website.