If you are eating ice cream and experience a jolt of pain as the cold hits your tooth, you are likely suffering from tooth sensitivity. This sensation can be excruciating and may also signify an underlying dental problem.
Pain of any kind in your teeth is abnormal and should be evaluated by a dental professional as soon as possible. Dr. Nishan Halim, a dentist in Washington, DC, describes emergency dentistry services available to you if you suffer from tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the surface of your tooth, the enamel, becomes thin or weakens and the layer of dentin becomes exposed. Pain happens when an external stimulus touches the nerves of the dentin. Enamel can weaken for several reasons:
- Broken teeth
- Worn fillings
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
There are multiple treatment options your dentist may pursue which depend on the causation of your tooth sensitivity symptoms. You can talk to your dentist for more details about your unique case during a consultation.
Should I Schedule an Emergency Dentist Appointment?
Tooth pain is not normal and should be considered a dental emergency. You should contact your dentist about your tooth sensitivity for prompt evaluation.
Even if you think the pain is bearable, you should still have a dentist examine the tooth because it may be a sign that the tooth has suffered damage that needs to be fixed. Your dentist can perform restorative dental work that will treat the tooth and alleviate excruciating symptoms.
What Treatment Can I Expect?
For mild cases of tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend that you use desensitizing toothpaste. Patients with more severe tooth damage may require intervention from a dental professional.
If the patient has a cavity, the dentist can treat the decay and give the patient a filling. Dentists can amend worn fillings and broken teeth with a dental crown or other restorative treatment. The crown covers the surface of the tooth, preventing nerves in dentin from being stimulated and causing pain.
Emergency Dentistry Services in Washington, DC
Dr. Halim offers both preventative care and emergency dentistry to patients in Washington, DC. Our practice specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry, including dental sedation. To schedule a consultation or appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 202.318.4113.