When teeth hurt, the sooner we reach the root of the problem, the sooner the pain disappears.
OUCH! What triggers tooth pain? Heat, cold, touch, air, sweet or sour foods.
If you recently had a cavity filled, that area may be sensitive for a while. Other causes of sensitivity are:
- Erosion of tooth enamel.
- Gum shrinkage down below the crown exposing the cementum beneath, an area sensitive to heat and cold.
- One or more teeth shifting into a position where they strike too hard against other teeth. This can happen to anyone, but it is most frequent when a lost tooth is not replaced.
- Clenching or grinding of teeth, whether awake or asleep.
TRY THIS AT HOME
Desensitizing toothpaste (look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance); avoid whitening or tartar control toothpastes. Use a soft toothbrush with short back-and-forth strokes and a gentle up-and-down motion. Brush thoroughly. Floss daily.
GET PROFESSIONAL HELP
If pain persists, come see us. We can pinpoint the cause and offer solutions. Coating the area with a fluoride gel or desensitizing agent may be all that’s needed. If it’s a cracked tooth, worn filling or decay, we can fix that, too. Don’t delay. Call now for an appointment at our offices today! 800-210-0630
