Do your teeth hurt more in the winter? Do you ever feel a twinge of pain when you sip a cup of hot coffee? If so, it’s important that you schedule an appointment with one of our dentists in Kalamazoo, MI, to determine the source of your . There are many reasons for tooth sensitivity, but the most common is worn tooth enamel.
Here’s what else you need to know about sensitive teeth.
How Long Does Tooth Sensitivity Last?
Most tooth sensitivity goes away on its own. But you’ll need to schedule an appointment with our dentists if your teeth are sensitive for more than a day or two. This could be a sign of a larger problem that our dentists should diagnose and treat.
You may have sensitive teeth due to:
- Brushing teeth too hard
- Sugary foods and drinks
- Dental plaque buildup
- Nighttime teeth grinding
- Excessive teeth whitening
- Gum disease
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain and Sensitivity
It’s not uncommon for more patients to report tooth sensitivity during the winter months. But this doesn’t mean that you should ignore tooth pain. Pain is your body’s way of telling you when something is wrong.
If you experience tooth sensitivity that lasts for more than a couple of days, call us as soon as possible. The longer you avoid seeing a dentist, the more time you’re giving cavities or gum disease to worsen.
Related: How to Relieve a Toothache Until You Can See a Dentist →
Understand the Source of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity could be a sign of a larger problem. For example, one of the first symptoms of gum disease is sensitive teeth due to receding gums. You may also experience sensitivity if you have a cracked or decayed tooth.
The sooner you see one of our dentists, the sooner you can discover what’s causing your tooth sensitivity. From there, our dentists will be able to create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your oral health needs. For example, you may need to wear a custom night guard if your tooth sensitivity is related to nighttime teeth grinding and clenching.
Don’t Wait to Schedule an Appointment
Never ignore dental pain or discomfort. Always schedule an appointment with us as soon as you notice . That way, we’ll be able to detect any issues before they have the chance to worsen.
Sometimes a patient may only need a small change in their routine to get rid of tooth sensitivity. For example, reducing the amount of sugar in your diet can help you avoid sensitive teeth. Having routine teeth cleanings can also remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Schedule Your Next Visit with Us
Ready to take control of your dental health and discover the source of your tooth sensitivity? If so, it’s time to take action. Schedule an appointment with one of our dentists in Kalamazoo, MI. Call one of our convenient Kalamazoo Smiles locations or fill out our online contact form to get started.
This blog post has been updated.
