Tooth pain and sensitivity can range from mild discomfort to sharp, lingering pain and are often signs of an underlying dental issue. Some people experience a sudden twinge when eating or drinking something hot or cold, while others feel constant pain when chewing or applying pressure. Even if the discomfort seems minor, it’s important to have it evaluated to prevent more serious complications.

Common Triggers Include:

• Hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
• Biting or chewing pressure
• Brushing or flossing near a sensitive area
• Gum recession or exposed roots
• Changes in temperature

Tooth sensitivity can develop for many reasons, and identifying the cause is key to finding lasting relief.

Tooth Decay (Cavities)

When decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth, it can irritate the nerve and cause persistent pain or sensitivity.

Gum Recession

As gums recede and expose the roots, teeth become more sensitive to temperature changes and touch.

Worn Enamel

Over time, enamel can wear down from acidic foods, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding, leaving the inner layers more exposed.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

A small crack can reach the tooth’s nerve, causing sharp or intermittent pain when biting or chewing.

Dental Abscess or Infection

An untreated infection can lead to swelling, throbbing pain, or even pus around the gums, requiring immediate attention.

Recent Dental Work

Fillings, crowns, or whitening procedures may cause temporary sensitivity that typically resolves within a few days.

At New Leaf Dental Care, we begin with a comprehensive exam and advanced imaging to identify the source of your discomfort. Once diagnosed, we provide personalized treatment options designed to relieve pain and restore your dental health.

Desensitizing Treatments

We may recommend fluoride applications, prescription toothpaste, or in-office treatments to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Dental Fillings or Restorations

If decay is present, we remove the affected area and restore the tooth with a durable filling, crown, or bonding material.

Root Canal Therapy

When pain is caused by nerve inflammation or infection, a root canal can remove the infection, relieve pain, and save the natural tooth.

Gum Therapy

If sensitivity is related to gum disease or recession, scaling, root planing, or soft-tissue treatments can help restore gum health.

Nightguards for Grinding

For patients who grind or clench their teeth, a custom nightguard protects against further enamel wear and nerve irritation.

Any ongoing toothache or sensitivity should be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment prevents worsening pain, infection, and more costly procedures in the future.

Contact our office right away if you experience:

• Persistent tooth pain or throbbing
• Swelling around a tooth or gums
• Fever or signs of infection
• A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
• Sensitivity that lasts more than a few days