You don’t normally get up this early, but your siblings and their families are staying at your house for Thanksgiving week. You head downstairs and get a pot of coffee brewing before the other adults shuffle into the kitchen.
You go ahead and pour a cup, knowing you need an energy boost for the busy day of cooking that awaits. OUCH! That sip of coffee sent a jolt of pain through your mouth – why are your teeth hurting so much now?!
As you try to figure out if this is pain you can cope with over the holidays, keep reading to get some insight from your emergency dentist in Fayetteville on what constitutes a dental emergency, common causes of tooth sensitivity, and when you need to seek help.
What Constitutes a “Dental Emergency”?
Patients often think dental emergencies are only extreme injuries like a knocked-out tooth or lost dental crown. Actually, you should see your emergency dentist if any abnormal symptoms arise between your six-month visits, including swelling, pain, or bleeding.
In some cases, this does include tooth sensitivity, especially since it could be the result of a much bigger problem. Therefore, when deciding if you should give your dental team a call, it is important to consider what the culprit is.
What Are Some Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?
While some patients are naturally more prone to sensitive teeth, it is often caused by damage. For example, while a healthy tooth has a strong coating of enamel protecting the inner layers, a decayed tooth penetrates this tough outer layer, allowing hot and cold foods and beverages to reach the nerves. The result? Hypersensitivity. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the common causes, including:
- Exposed tooth root
- Eroded tooth enamel
- Gum disease
- Worn restorations like fillings and dental crowns
- Fractured teeth
- Tooth decay or a cavity
When Do I Know I Should Contact My Emergency Dentist?
A person who has struggled with dental sensitivity for a long time and has already had a dentist confirm it isn’t the result of a bigger oral health problem does not need to schedule an emergency visit. They should instead try using a desensitizing toothpaste at home or ask about a fluoride gel to use while at their next appointment.
Conversely, if you have a new sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages, then you should definitely schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. From there, they can identify the root of the problem and intervene swiftly to ensure no further damage is done.
Tooth sensitivity can be extremely uncomfortable, especially if you love a hot cup of coffee or scoop of ice cream. To restore your pain-free smile, make sure to speak with your dentist sooner rather than later! And if you need to go today, your brother should be able to tend to the turkey and stuffing preparation until you return.
About the Author
Dr. Angela Ruff earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina, later returning to her hometown to open her own practice. She’s enjoyed the opportunity to treat patients in Fayetteville for more than 30 years now. Dr. Ruff is a member of the American Dental Association. If you ever have reason to believe you need an emergency dentist, she offers same-day appointments, is highly trained in various specialties, and has multiple sedation options to choose from. If it’s an emergency or you are just looking to get a dental cleaning and exam, visit her website or call (910) 630-6199.