Tooth sensitivity isn’t uncommon, and in some instances, it’s not something you need to worry about. But often, tooth sensitivity is related to an underlying problem, like gum recession, infections, or cracked or decayed teeth. Delaying care in these instances can quickly lead to more pain — and more complex and costly treatment.
At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team uses a variety of advanced techniques to diagnose the cause of tooth sensitivity, prescribing therapies focused on treating not only the symptoms but the underlying problem, too. Here are seven signs it’s time to seek treatment for your sensitive teeth.
It’s a cold day out. You breathe in and suddenly feel the cold deep in your teeth. Or you bite into an ice cream cone, and the cold hurts your teeth.
These temporary sensitivity issues may not be anything to worry about, especially if they resolve soon afterward. But if you have sensitivity that persists or recurs, there’s a good chance you have an underlying problem that needs to be evaluated by our team right away.
Likewise, tooth sensitivity that happens more and more frequently or causes worsening pain and discomfort is another indication that you need a dental evaluation. In fact, worsening symptoms can be a clear sign of an underlying problem that’s getting worse, like a cavity that’s spreading or a tooth crack that’s widening or extending into the deeper part of your tooth.
Sometimes, gums bleed from minor, temporary irritation — for instance, biting an unusually hard or crunchy food or flossing too aggressively. But often, bleeding gums are a sign of a more serious problem. When accompanied by tooth sensitivity, it could mean your gums are receding, increasing your risk of tooth root damage and tooth loss.
When tooth sensitivity is accompanied by gum swelling or tenderness, that’s another reason to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Gum swelling can be a sign of an underlying infection that could spread to the tooth root or even the jawbone. Some infections can spread through your bloodstream, causing complex problems that can pose serious health risks.
Most of us have bad breath from time to time, thanks to smelly foods like onions, garlic, or coffee. This type of bad breath typically clears up with more vigilant brushing and flossing. But if you have chronic bad breath accompanied by tooth sensitivity, it could be a sign of an infection that requires prompt treatment before complications occur.
Often, tooth sensitivity affects a single tooth, particularly when it’s associated with a cavity or a cracked tooth. If sensitivity issues are spreading to neighboring teeth, that’s another sign that you might have an underlying infection that’s becoming more serious the longer care is delayed.
Sometimes, tooth sensitivity develops after you’ve had another problem fixed. For instance, an ill-fitting crown or a complex root canal procedure can sometimes leave you with extra sensitivity. In some instances, sensitivity resolves during healing, but in other cases, you might need a follow-up visit to re-fit a crown or have an alternate treatment.
While occasional temporary sensitivity isn’t always an indicator of an underlying issue, it’s often associated with problems like cavities, receding gums, or fissures — all “minor” problems that require a quick solution to prevent serious complications, like deep infections or tooth loss.
To find out what’s causing your sensitive teeth — and what we can do to help — call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.
