How do I know if my teeth are sensitive or my tooth needs actual treatment

Treating sensitive teeth

Image result for toothache
Teeth sensitivity is a large problem for several of my patients as they get older. How do we determine if you have sensitive teeth vs an actual tooth problem? We need to x ray and inspect your tooth to see if any cavities are present or close to the pulp.  Infections are typically what causes actual tooth pain and not just sensitivity. How can you tell usually?

Actual tooth problem

Image result for cavitiesLasts 5-15 seconds with stimulus or without.
3-10 on the pain scale
history of infections or deep fillings in the area
Gets worse with time. (until the tooth devitalizes then it does get better)
Swelling, symptoms with touching the gum above the tooth or biting.

Image result for gum recessionTeeth sensitivity.

Lasts 1-3 seconds with stimulus,
2-3 pain scale
no history of past infections or deep fillings
Gets better with time.
No other symptoms with touching the gum above the tooth or biting.






What Causes tooth sensitivity?

- over brushing causing gum recession and small lesions on the tooth.
Image result for acidic food- bone and gum loss due to inadequate hygiene
- Erosion of your teeth from acidic foods.
- natural wear of the teeth as you get much older.
- unnatural wear due to night grinding or grinding of teeth.

Most people have sensitive teeth because of exposed dentin or cementum. Parts of the tooth that are not supposed to be exposed to the outside environment when you have healthy gums and natural teeth.


Stay tuned for the cure or call us today to schedule an appointment! (408)366-2828

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