If you’ve ever winced from a sip of cold water or felt a dull ache in your jaw that just wouldn’t go away, you’re not alone. Dental pain and sensitivity are among the most common reasons people visit the dentist. Whether it’s a sharp twinge or a lingering throb, pain in your mouth is never something to ignore—it’s your body’s way of telling you something needs attention.
In this blog from Emergency Dentistry in Southwest Florida, we’ll explore what causes dental pain and sensitivity, how to tell when it’s time to see a dentist, and what your dental team can do to help you find lasting relief.
What Is Dental Sensitivity?
Dental sensitivity, often called “tooth sensitivity,” is that sudden discomfort or pain you feel in response to certain triggers—especially things like:
- Cold drinks or foods
- Hot beverages
- Sweet or acidic foods
- Brushing or flossing
- Cold air hitting your teeth
This sensation can feel like a quick zap or a lingering ache. It may affect just one tooth or several. While occasional sensitivity isn’t always a sign of a serious issue, persistent sensitivity usually means there’s something going on beneath the surface.
Common Causes of Dental Sensitivity
To understand sensitivity, it helps to know a little bit about the structure of your teeth. The outer layer of your tooth is enamel, which protects the softer layers underneath. If that enamel wears down or your gums recede, the inner part of the tooth—called dentin—becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerve of the tooth, which is why those zings of pain happen when something triggers them.
Here are some common reasons this might happen:
1. Worn Enamel
Brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, or grinding your teeth can wear down enamel over time. Once enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back, so protecting it is key.
2. Gum Recession
Gum disease, aggressive brushing, or even age can cause your gums to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth. Unlike enamel-covered surfaces, the roots are covered in cementum, which is much more sensitive.
3. Tooth Decay
Cavities start by breaking down enamel and can expose the dentin underneath. As decay gets closer to the nerve, sensitivity and pain usually increase.
4. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Even small cracks in a tooth can let in bacteria or expose dentin, causing pain and sensitivity. These cracks may not be visible, but they can definitely be felt.
5. Dental Procedures
Sometimes, sensitivity can happen after dental treatments like fillings, crowns, or cleanings. This usually goes away on its own in a few days, but if it lingers, it’s worth checking out.
6. Whitening Products
Over-the-counter or professional whitening treatments can temporarily irritate the nerves in your teeth, leading to short-term sensitivity.
What About Dental Pain?
While sensitivity is typically triggered by specific stimuli, dental pain is often more persistent and may point to something more serious. The nature of the pain—whether it’s sharp, throbbing, or constant—can help determine the cause.
Common Causes of Dental Pain Include:
- Tooth Decay – As mentioned earlier, cavities that go untreated can reach the nerve and cause pain.
- Infection or Abscess – A tooth infection can cause intense, throbbing pain, swelling, and even a fever.
- Impacted Teeth – Wisdom teeth that don’t have enough room to emerge can cause pressure and jaw pain.
- Jaw Clenching or Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – This can lead to pain in the teeth, jaw joints, and even headaches.
- Sinus Infections – Sometimes, pain in the upper back teeth can actually be caused by pressure in the sinuses.
- Cracked Teeth or Lost Fillings – These issues expose the more sensitive parts of the tooth and often cause sharp, sudden pain.
How Your Dentist Can Help
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain that doesn’t go away in a day or two, it’s time to schedule a visit. Your dentist can perform a thorough exam, take X-rays if needed, and identify what’s causing the discomfort. The sooner you get it checked out, the easier—and often less expensive—the treatment will be.
Possible Treatments for Sensitivity and Pain:
- Desensitizing Toothpaste – For mild sensitivity, special toothpaste can block the tubules in the dentin and reduce discomfort over time.
- Fluoride Treatments – Professional fluoride applications strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Dental Fillings or Sealants – If the sensitivity is due to decay or exposed areas, your dentist may apply a filling or protective sealant.
- Gum Treatment – If gum recession or gum disease is the cause, treatments like scaling and root planing can help.
- Root Canal Therapy – If the nerve of the tooth is infected or severely inflamed, a root canal can relieve pain and save the tooth.
- Night Guards – If teeth grinding is contributing to sensitivity or pain, a custom night guard can protect your teeth while you sleep.
- Crown or Bonding – In cases of significant damage, a crown or bonding material can cover the exposed area and restore function.
When to Call the Dentist
It’s a good idea to make an appointment if:
- Your sensitivity or pain lasts more than a couple of days
- The pain is severe or keeps you from eating, sleeping, or concentrating
- You notice swelling, pus, or a fever
- A tooth becomes discolored or loose
- You experience pain after a recent dental procedure that doesn’t go away
Even if the pain comes and goes, it’s still worth checking in. Dental issues don’t always go away on their own—and sometimes, waiting too long can make treatment more complicated.
Treatment for Dental Discomfort in Southwest Florida
Tooth sensitivity and pain are common, but they’re not something you should just put up with. They’re often your mouth’s way of telling you something’s wrong—and the good news is, your dentist has the tools and expertise to help.
Whether you need a simple adjustment to your routine or a specific treatment to resolve the problem, we’re here to make the process as comfortable and straightforward as possible. The goal is always the same: to get you out of pain and help you enjoy your meals, conversations, and daily life without worrying about your teeth.
If you’ve been dealing with sensitivity or discomfort, don’t wait. Whether you need an exam for tooth pain, a regular check-up appointment, or any other dental health services, choose Emergency Dentistry and call 941-375-4005 today.
