Sudden tooth sensitivity usually happens when the more vulnerable layer beneath your enamel, called dentin, becomes exposed or another dental issue irritates a tooth. That’s why a sip of cold water, hot coffee, something sweet, or even brushing may suddenly cause a sharp sensation. General dentistry services can help you identify the cause so you’re not simply trying to avoid whatever makes your teeth hurt.
The Dentists of Omaha has roots in the community dating back to 1996 and now has four offices in Omaha, NE. The team includes several Nebraska-born dentists educated at schools like Creighton University and the University of Nebraska.
What Can Cause Sudden Tooth Sensitivity?
Sensitive teeth aren’t always caused by the same thing. The discomfort may occur when enamel wears down, gums recede, or a tooth develops damage that exposes or irritates the inner layers.
Common causes include:
- Tooth decay
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- Worn or damaged fillings
- Gum disease or gum recession
- Worn tooth enamel
- An exposed tooth root
Acidic foods and drinks may also contribute to enamel erosion over time. Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear the surfaces as well.
Why Did My Teeth Feel Fine Before?
Sensitivity can seem to appear overnight even when the underlying change has been happening gradually. A small area of enamel loss or gum recession might not bother you until enough dentin becomes exposed.
Pay attention to whether the discomfort affects one tooth or several teeth. Sensitivity across multiple teeth may have a different cause than a sudden, sharp sensation in one specific spot.
Can Sensitive Teeth Go Away?
Whether sensitivity will go away depends on the cause. Desensitizing toothpaste can reduce discomfort related to exposed dentin for some people, while fluoride products help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity. Other situations require care for a cavity, cracked tooth, worn restoration, or gum problem.
Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and, when appropriate, use digital X-rays to look for concerns that aren’t visible during a regular exam. The Dentists of Omaha also provides fillings, inlays and onlays, root canal therapy, tooth extractions, and preventive dental care.
When Should You See a Dentist About Sensitivity?
Don’t ignore sensitivity that keeps returning, becomes stronger, or seems isolated to one tooth. Pain while biting, lingering discomfort after hot or cold foods, swelling, or a persistent toothache deserves prompt attention.
Finding the source early can also keep a small dental problem from becoming more complicated.
Find the Reason Behind Your Sensitive Teeth
You don’t have to reorganize your meals around a sensitive tooth. Contact us to have The Dentists of Omaha evaluate your symptoms at one of its four Omaha, NE locations. Reach Hillsborough at (402) 802-9956, Village Pointe at (402) 505-7474, Ralston Square at (402) 307-6215, or Dundee at (402) 307-6220.