Does your child experience a jolt of pain when biting into a cold or sugary treat? They could be suffering from tooth sensitivity. This excruciating sensation does not go away on its own and often requires treatment from a dental professional.
Sensitivity could point to a larger dental concern and should be evaluated promptly by a dentist. Dr. Allie Miller, a pediatric dentist practicing in Winter Park, FL, responds to frequently asked questions regarding tooth sensitivity.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Each tooth has an outer surface called enamel. Enamel covers the underlying dentin layer, which contains nerves that send pain signals to the brain when stimulated.
Over time, enamel can erode due to poor oral hygiene habits or other factors outside of a patient’s control, including side effects from certain medications. The resulting sensation if an external stimulant touches a nerve in dentin is tooth sensitivity.
Is Tooth Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?
Some dental patients may consider tooth sensitivity pain tolerable, but tooth pain of any kind should be evaluated by a dental professional as soon as possible. The sensation could be a symptom of a larger dental concern that could worsen and cause significant damage to a patient’s smile.
Children are often sensitive to pain of this kind, so a guardian should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist promptly if the child notices tooth sensitivity. The office can get the patient in for an emergency dentist appointment and provide appropriate treatment after looking at the tooth.
How Does a Dentist Treat Sensitivity?
Treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on what is causing this symptom. In mild instances, a dentist may recommend that the patient use desensitizing toothpaste in order to alleviate sensitivity pain.
A major cause of tooth sensitivity, especially in young patients, is cavities. A dental professional can treat a cavity and therefore relieve pain with a dental filling. More severe cases may require restorative dental solutions, such as a dental crown. Your dentist can use advanced diagnostic tools to find the best treatment for your child.
Emergency Dentistry Services Available in Winter Park, FL
Pediatric Dentistry of Winter Park offers both preventative and emergency dental care for young patients in Winter Park, FL. Dr. Miller also specializes in restorative and cosmetic procedures for pediatric patients. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 407.434.0267.