
When to See a Doctor About Sensitive Teeth

About one in eight Americans has dentin hypersensitivity, or teeth sensitivity to temperature extremes, sour foods, or sweet treats. While it’s not necessarily cause for concern, sensitive teeth could indicate a cavity, cracked tooth, gum problems, or other dental issues.
If you experience changes in the way your teeth look, function, or feel, don’t put off getting the dental care you need. Call Kenn Kakosian, DDS, PhD, and the general dentistry specialists at DentAlign NYC in Midtown East, Manhattan, New York, to schedule an oral health visit before a tiny issue becomes a bigger problem.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity
A number of factors can lead to teeth sensitivity, including:
- Cavities
- Overbrushing that wears down tooth enamel
- Gum recession
- Wear and tear
- A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- Teeth grinding
- Acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits
- Some mouthwashes
- Overuse of home teeth whitening products
- Recent dental procedures, such as cleanings, fillings, root canals, or dental restorations
- Tooth infections
You may have multiple causes of sensitive teeth, which range in severity from mild to severe. Sometimes, the pain can be debilitating.
Reasons to see a dentist about sensitive teeth
Anytime you have new or worsening tooth sensitivity, it's important to see your dentist to get screened for possible tooth or gum concerns.
Sometimes the sensitivity is temporary, caused by a recent dental procedure or improperly using home teeth whitening products. In other cases, however, sensitive teeth could indicate a problem requiring routine monitoring by Dr. Kakosian or prompt dental care to avoid complications.
Treatment approaches for sensitive teeth
Not all cases of tooth sensitivity require treatment. Depending on the cause and severity of your tooth sensitivity, Dr. Kakosian may suggest one or more of the following solutions:
- Maintain good oral hygiene habits at home
- Don’t chew on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Wear a nightguard to protect against teeth grinding
- Eat fewer acidic foods
- Get regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleanings more frequently
- Use fluoridated dental products
- Consider dentin sealants, dental bonding, or fluoride varnish
- Undergo treatment for gum disease
- Receive dental restoration for tooth damage
- Undergo a root canal for a tooth infection
If you choose teeth whitening to brighten your teeth, opt for in-office or professional-grade home whitening available at DentAlign NYC. Brush your teeth regularly (especially after meals), eat nutritious foods, and visit the dentist’s office at least every six months. Dr. Kakosian tailors a treatment plan based on your personalized needs and lifestyle.
Don’t wait to schedule a dental visit for sensitive teeth. Book your next appointment with Dr. Kakosian and his experienced team by contacting us by phone or using online booking today.
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