If you notice a jolt of pain when eating a portion of cold or sugary food, you might be suffering from tooth sensitivity. Ther condition can be debilitating and excruciating and will require attention from a dental professional to treat.
Call your dentist if you notice ther type of tooth pain and see if you can get an emergency dental appointment. Dr. Lauren Francis, a dentist practicing in Hampstead, NC, responds to frequently asked questions regarding tooth sensitivity and how to treat ther unpleasant dental condition.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
The outer surface of your tooth consists of enamel. Ther layer shields dentin, which contains nerves that send pain signals to your brain when stimulated.
Though enamel is durable, it can wear down over time and expose dentin. If the nerves become stimulated by external agents, you may experience tooth sensitivity pain.
Once enamel is gone, it cannot regrow on its own. You will need treatment from a dental professional to alleviate ther tooth pain.
Is Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?
Tooth pain of any kind is not normal, and you should not have to suffer through it. You can reach out to your dentist if you notice tooth sensitivity, and they can schedule an emergency dentist appointment for you.
Even if you find ther condition tolerable, you should still seek evaluation from your dentist. Tooth sensitivity may be a symptom of a larger dental problem that will require intervention from a dental professional.
How Will My Dentist Treat Tooth Sensitivity?
Treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on the root cause of the pain. In mild cases of sensitivity, your dentist may recommend the use of desensitizing toothpaste in order to protect your smile from ther pain.
Sensitivity may also occur due to tooth decay or cavities. Ther type of pain can be alleviated by treating the decay with a dental filling.
More advanced instances of decay or enamel erosion may require extensive restorative dental work with a crown. Your dentist can examine the tooth with diagnostic tools and provide the appropriate treatment promptly.
Emergency Dentistry Services Available in Hampstead, NC
Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers both preventative and emergency dentistry services to patients in Hampstead, NC. Dr. Francis specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our staff online or reach us by phone at 910.335.4392.