What’s Causing My Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable. When it comes on suddenly, it can also be an indication of a problem. If you have sudden tooth sensitivity, it’s important to know what could potentially be causing the sensitivity. Your dentist in Central City, KY can help with this. Here’s what you need to know.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Many things can cause tooth sensitivity, including:

• Brushing your teeth too hard
• Gum recession
• A crack in your tooth enamel
• Acidic foods
• Grinding your teeth
• Dental work (usually temporary)

If you’re not sure what causes tooth sensitivity, work with your dentist to discover the root of your problem. You may have dental decay or a dental infection that is causing the problem, so see the dentist as soon as it’s possible.

What can I do about tooth sensitivity?

If you have sensitive teeth, there are several potential solutions, depending on the cause of the problem. If your tooth sensitivity is caused by dental decay or an infection, your dentist will need to resolve the issue. You may need a cavity filling or a root canal procedure. If your tooth sensitivity is caused by something besides decay or a crack in your tooth’s enamel, other potential solutions include:

• Use de-sensitizing toothpaste
• Fluoride applied to the tooth’s enamel
• Surgical gum graft (if gum recession is causing the problem)

What’s a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that the dentist will use to eliminate infection in the tooth. During the root canal, the dentist cleans out the infected pulp, fills the tooth with sealant, and then protects the tooth with a cap over the tooth enamel.

If you’re experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity in Central City, KY, it could be an indication of a problem. Contact David S.Morehead Family Dentistry to make an appointment today.