Why Does It Hurt When I Touch My Tooth? 

Nearly everyone experiences some type of tooth sensitivity at some point in their life. Usually, this sensitivity comes and goes when teeth are exposed to food or drinks that are hot or cold. However, it may be more concerning if you experience tooth sensitivity or pain when you chew, brush, or touch your teeth. Here are some of the reasons your tooth may hurt when pressure is applied and how your dentist in Rocky Mount can help. 

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity? 

There are many different things that can cause sensitive teeth, and the treatment options may vary depending on the cause. But many times, tooth sensitivity occurs when the inner layers of the tooth, where the roots and nerves are, become exposed. This happens when the protective layer of enamel is worn away. Some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity include: 

• Brushing your teeth too hard
• Broken, cracked, or lost fillings
• Some whitening products
• Eating acidic foods
• Grinding your teeth
• Tooth decay
• Cracked or broken tooth
• Abscess

How to Treat Sensitive Teeth

It’s important to see your dentist in Rocky Mount  to determine the cause of your sensitivity before beginning any treatment. The good news is there are a variety of treatment options available depending on the cause. 

• Restorative Dentistry

If your sensitivity is caused by a damaged dental restoration, decay, or a cracked or broken tooth, your dentist may recommend some type of restorative dentistry. These treatment options include dental fillings, dental crowns, or perhaps an inlay or onlay.  

• Root Canal

When sensitivity increases when you bite down or it sticks around for a long time, you may need a root canal. Again, your dentist will be able to tell you if this is the case. Even though root canals can seem scary, the truth is that they help the pain go away. 

• Special Toothpaste

There are also times when gum recession is to blame for tooth sensitivity. In this case, your dentist in Rocky Mount  may recommend fluoride treatments at your dental appointments or a special desensitizing toothpaste or rinse. 

Is There Any Way to Reduce Sensitivity At Home? 

The best way to avoid sensitive teeth is to take good care of them by brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist for regular checkups at least every six months. Make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush in small circles. But if you’re already experiencing sensitivity, there are things you can do prior to your dental appointment. 

• Clove Oil – Apply a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and apply it to the tooth. 
• Salt Water – Swish some salt water around in your mouth and then spit it out. 
• Avoid Certain Foods – Take it easy on acidic or sugary foods and drinks. 

Keep in mind, none of these remedies are long-term solutions. You should never avoid tooth pain or sensitivity. In fact, doing so can make the symptoms worse. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to get relief today. 

About The Author

Dr. Richard Hunt

Dr. Richard Hunt has served as president of the NC Dental Society and the Dental Foundation of NC. He is the director and past chair of the LD Pankey Foundation and former chair of the Dental Assisting National Board. Dr. Hunt regularly teaches at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education and the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. An active member of the American Dental Association, he has represented his peers from NC, SC, and VA on the ADA’s Council on Dental Practice.

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