We’ve all been there. We bite down on something and that shooting nerve pain stops us in our tracks. Maybe you’ve been feeling it lately when you brush your teeth. If you have tooth sensitivity, you’re probably dreading that trip to the dentist because you think you have cavities, and if you can feel them, that means they’re probably pretty deep, right?
Not always. While tooth sensitivity is a sign of a cavity in some cases, it doesn’t always mean that. In fact, we have patients who get a surprised look on their face when we tell them they have no cavities because they were absolutely positive they had at least one, if not more. In these cases, we like to ask some questions to find out why they might be feeling some recurring tooth sensitivity.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Let’s explore some of the other common reasons you may be feeling tooth sensitivity!
1. Worn Down Tooth Enamel
This is extremely common, and it’s usually the first thing we check when a patient mentions tooth sensitivity. All of our teeth are covered in a hard enamel, which protects the softer interior from being exposed to “the elements” e.g. cold liquids, sugar, acid, etc.
Keeping your enamel in tip-top shape is key. Don’t brush too hard, limit your soda intake, as well as other sugary, sticky, or high-acidity foods and drinks. If you grind your teeth, it is time to get a mouthguard (especially at night) and consider putting those at-home whitening treatments on hold. Many of them can be damaging not only to your enamel, but also to your gums.
2. Shrinking Gums
As we get older, our gums become less supple. They start to pull away from the tooth, and in more extreme cases, can expose a bit of the root that used to be protected. It should come as no surprise that this can be pretty painful!
If you suspect your gums may be shrinking, we’d love to have you come in to see us. First, we want to make sure there’s no gum disease that we need to address. Secondly, we can see if there are any restorative treatments that may help address the gum degradation so you can live a more pain-free life.
3. Cracked Tooth or Old Filling
Even the smallest, almost invisible cracks in a tooth or a filling can lead to tooth sensitivity. This is because the tooth’s inner pulp is exposed to temperature change and irritation. In the early stages, you may feel the symptom of pulpititis, which is a short, sharp pain with cold or sweet foods that go away quickly. This is something to address quickly, as early pulpitis is reversible.
4. Cavities
Okay, so we know we said tooth sensitivity doesn’t always equal cavities… but sometimes it does! The reason you are feeling pain and sensitivity may be due to tooth decay. Coming in for an exam is really the only way to know for sure, and it is so important that you don’t wait too long to call us.
Untreated tooth decay can lead to infection, which may require a root canal or even an extraction. So, while we don’t always find a cavity when you’ve been dealing with tooth sensitivity, it’s better to be safe than sorry and get it checked out as soon as possible!
5. Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Work
You may experience some sensitivity after getting a new filling, but you should only feel this sensitivity for a short time. You may also have sensitive teeth after a trip to the hygienist or from other recent dental procedures. If your symptoms persist, book a checkup to make sure the filling has taken properly.
Tooth Sensitivity vs. Cavities
The main differences between cavity or tooth sensitivity are the symptoms. A cavity might be accompanied by bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. Tooth sensitivity typically does not.
The type of pain you feel can be different, too. It is more common to feel cavity pain in one tooth in particular, while you may feel sensitivity across many teeth. The pain of sensitivity tends to go away quickly after you stop the trigger, like a cold drink. With cavities, pain persists.
So What Can You Do?
If you have tooth sensitivity, but you can’t make it to the dentist right away, there are a few things you can do. First, we highly recommend brushing with a toothpaste that is made specifically for sensitive teeth. There are a lot of good ones out there, so grab one and see if it brings you some relief.
Next, you want to make sure to cut down on all triggering foods and beverages. Anything too cold, too sugary, too acidic, or too diuretic (like alcohol) can make the situation worse. Eat soft foods, brush gently, and look for a mouthwash that helps to build enamel. Ultimately, though, you’re going to need to make an appointment with your dentist. It’s the only way to rule out something serious and get specific recommendations based on your tooth sensitivity issues.
Tooth Sensitivity FAQs
Here are a few questions many adults have about tooth sensitivity or cavities.
Does Tooth Sensitivity Mean Cavities?
No. You can have tooth sensitivity without a cavity. Sensitivity can happen when your enamel wears down, exposing the softer dentin layer underneath.
Is Tooth Sensitivity an Emergency?
It can be, though it depends on the cause of your tooth sensitivity. If the pain feels localized to one tooth or comes after a crack or physical trauma, prompt attention is important to prevent infection and preserve your dental health. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist even if your tooth sensitivity feels minor. Early treatment can help.
How Is Tooth Sensitivity Treated?
There are many ways you can treat the symptoms of tooth sensitivity. This includes gels and toothpastes for less acute sensitivity. The next level of treatment might be crowns or bonding to fix the cause. There are also more involved procedures like gum grafts. Root canals are typically a last resort.
How Do Dentists Fix a Cavity?
If you catch a suspected cavity early, you may be able to stop it from developing by using a high-fluoride or a cavity repair toothpaste. You can also manage symptoms with lifestyle changes like reducing sugar.
For more acute cavity issues, dentists usually drill the tooth to remove the decay. They then add a filling. You can choose from amalgam, composite or gold fillings, all with varying benefits and price points.
How Can I Tell if Tooth Sensitivity Is a Cavity?
Since symptoms can overlap, the best way to identify the cause of your tooth sensitivity is by scheduling a visit with your dentist. They will conduct X-rays and a physical examination to check for any decay, then recommend the best course of action to alleviate symptoms.
Keep Your Smile Healthy at Inspire Dental Wellness
Preventing cavities starts with regular dental exams and cleanings. If it’s time for your next appointment, give us a call today at 708-556-2959 or request your appointment.
