Tooth Sensitivity: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment in Pineville, NC

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Tooth sensitivity is a common and painful dental concern that affects many people. The pain experienced can be mild or severe and occur suddenly or gradually. Good oral hygiene, like regular dental check-ups and cleanings, is essential in preventing tooth sensitivity and maintaining optimal dental health.

At Radiant Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we specialize in providing quality treatments for tooth sensitivity in Pineville, NC, to eliminate dental pain and improve your oral health. Our team understands how to address sensitivity well and will provide you with the best treatments.

Our dentists in Pineville, Dr. Raynald L. Desameau, DMD, and Dr. Okons, are experts when it comes to tooth sensitivity and will educate you on its causes and treatments. With our dedication to oral health, we strive to deliver lasting relief from dental pain to you and your family.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can occur when the outer layer of the tooth wears away, thereby exposing the inner layers of the tooth. It is often characterized by a sharp pain or discomfort in the teeth when exposed to hot or cold temperatures, sweet foods, or during brushing and flossing. This makes it difficult to enjoy everyday activities like eating and drinking.

Extreme or sudden tooth sensitivity should be treated without delay. If you need an emergency dentist in Pineville, visit our practice to enjoy optimal oral health.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Several factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity, including enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth decay, and gnashing of the teeth. It is important for individuals to seek professional dental care to address the underlying causes and find relief. 

  • Enamel erosion: Enamel, the outer layer of the tooth, protects the underlying tooth layers. When this enamel wears down due to acidic foods and drinks or aggressive brushing, the dentin (the inner layer) becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity.
  • Gum recession: When the gums pull away from the teeth, the root surfaces become exposed. Unlike the tooth’s enamel, the roots do not have a protective layer and are more sensitive to temperature changes. This exposure can lead to sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods or brushing or flossing.
  • Tooth decay: When bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and produce acid, they can erode the enamel and cause cavities. If left untreated, these cavities can progress to the inner layers of the tooth, where the nerves are located, resulting in sensitivity.
  • Grinding of teeth: The excessive force placed on the teeth during grinding or gnashing can wear down the enamel, exposing the dentin and causing sensitivity. This condition can cause cracks or fractures, further increasing sensitivity.

It is important to address these underlying causes to relieve dental pain and discomfort. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding acidic foods and drinks can help prevent and manage tooth sensitivity. If you are experiencing sensitive teeth in Pineville, consult our dentists to determine the cause and explore the available treatment options.

Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can show different symptoms, including pain or discomfort when the mouth is stimulated with hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. These symptoms can significantly affect the quality of life and ability to eat and drink comfortably. 

  • Sudden Pain: This presents as a sharp tooth pain when eating or drinking. This can be debilitating and make it difficult for individuals to enjoy their favorite food or beverage. Also, tooth sensitivity can cause discomfort when brushing or flossing, leading to poor oral hygiene.
  • Sensitivity to touch: Some individuals may experience discomfort when touching their teeth or gums with their tongue or finger. This can indicate underlying dental issues, such as enamel erosion or gum recession, escalating the sensitivity.
  • Swollen gums: In several cases, swollen gums indicate more serious dental issues, such as an infected tooth or a cavity. Treating swollen gums as soon as possible is essential to prevent more complex dental problems.

Understanding how to identify the symptoms of tooth sensitivity is important to addressing the cause. If you need the help of an emergency dentist in Pineville, visit our practice and receive expert guidance. Our team employs techniques such as fluoride treatments to ensure you achieve perfect oral health.

When Should I See My Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity?

When Should I See My Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity in Pineville, NC?

While occasional tooth sensitivity may not be a cause for concern, persistent or severe sensitivity may indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires the attention of a dentist. It is essential not to ignore dental pain as it can impact your quality of life and lead to more severe issues if left untreated. 

During a routine exam, a dentist can evaluate the cause of your tooth sensitivity and provide appropriate treatment options. Addressing the underlying issues can help relieve the pain. Your dentist may also recommend using fluoride treatments to help strengthen enamel and protect sensitive teeth from further damage.

Living with tooth sensitivity can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and a decreased quality of life. If you have sensitive teeth in Pineville, visit our dentists and receive the treatment you deserve. We understand the impact of sensitive teeth on your overall well-being and provide personalized care to alleviate your discomfort and restore your oral function. 

Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems before they become more severe. If you’re experiencing tooth pain in Pineville, near Charlotte, our dentists provide expert recommendations for managing dental pain and tooth sensitivity and improving oral health.

Common Dental Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity

Various common dental treatments are available to treat tooth sensitivity and improve oral health. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine the cause and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Common treatments for sensitivity include:

  • Desensitizing toothpaste: These kinds of toothpaste contain compounds like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride that help block the pathways that lead to the tooth’s nerve, thus reducing sensitivity. 
  • Fluoride gels: Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and protect against decay, which can help reduce sensitivity. Dentists may apply fluoride gels during a routine dental visit to help strengthen teeth and reduce sensitivity.
  • Dental bonding: Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored material to the sensitive areas of the tooth to help reduce sensitivity and protect the enamel. 
  • Dental sealants: Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the teeth’ surface to prevent sensitivity and decay.
  • Gum grafting: This involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth and attaching it to the receding gum line to cover the exposed roots of the teeth. 
  • Dental crowns: Crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or sensitive teeth to protect them from further damage.

Our experienced team at Radiant Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry provides these treatments to help eliminate sensitivity and improve your dental health. If you require treatment for tooth pain in Pineville, near Charlotte, you can schedule an appointment with our dentists and receive top-quality treatments.

Experience Top-Quality Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity in Pineville, NC

Experience Top-Quality Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity in Pineville, NC

Are you tired of dealing with the discomfort and inconvenience of tooth sensitivity? Whether you experience sensitivity to temperature or if you feel pain while brushing and flossing, our experienced team of dental professionals is here to provide you with the care and attention you deserve.

At Radiant Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide treatments for tooth sensitivity in Pineville, NC, to improve your oral health. We understand how debilitating pain can be, and that’s why we offer various options to address the root cause of your sensitivity and provide long-lasting relief.

Don’t let tooth discomfort stop you from enjoying the foods and drinks you love. Experience quality treatment for tooth sensitivity with us today and take the first step towards regaining a pain-free and healthy smile. Schedule an appointment with our friendly dental team, and let us help you achieve optimal oral health.

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2 Convenient Locations In Your Area

Pineville: Monday-Thursday: 8am-1pm; 2pm-6pm
Salisbury: Monday-Thursday: 8am-5pm

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