Sensitivity & Pain

Sensitivity happens when the softer inner layer of the tooth (dentine) is exposed. Common causes include tooth decay, worn enamel, receding gums, cracked teeth, grinding, broken fillings and gum disease. Acidic foods and brushing too hard can also contribute.

Toothache is most often caused by decay reaching the nerve, a cracked tooth, an infection or abscess, gum disease or an erupting wisdom tooth. Because the causes vary, the right treatment depends on a proper examination and x-rays.

Yes. If you are experiencing sensitivity or pain and call before noon, we will guarantee you an appointment at our Yamanto clinic that day. We keep time available for emergencies so we can get you out of pain as quickly and gently as possible.

Call us straight away if you have severe or throbbing pain, facial swelling, a fever with tooth pain, a knocked-out or broken tooth, or bleeding that will not stop. Swelling that affects your breathing or swallowing needs urgent medical care, so call 000 or go to your nearest hospital.

Brief sensitivity to cold is often caused by exposed dentine from gum recession or worn enamel. Pain that lingers after the cold is gone may indicate decay or an inflamed nerve. If sensitivity lasts more than a week or two, book a check-up.

Pain when biting can be caused by a cracked tooth, a high or broken filling, decay or an infection at the root of the tooth. Cracked teeth often cause a sharp pain on release of biting. A crown can often protect a cracked tooth.

Sometimes pain eases, but the underlying problem usually remains and can get worse. An infected nerve may stop hurting because it has died, while the infection continues to spread. It is always best to have tooth pain checked early.

Treatment depends on the cause and may include desensitising toothpaste or varnish, a filling to cover exposed or decayed areas, gum treatment, a night guard for grinding or, for more serious problems, root canal treatment.

Over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed can help, as can rinsing with warm salty water and avoiding very hot, cold or sweet foods. Never place aspirin directly on the gum. Call us on (07) 3060 4724 to arrange an appointment.

Where possible, we aim to save your natural tooth with a filling, crown or root canal treatment. If the tooth cannot be saved, a gentle extraction may be the best option. We will explain the pros, cons and costs of each choice.

Yes. Gum disease can cause sore, bleeding gums, sensitivity from gum recession and, in advanced cases, loose or painful teeth. Many people have no pain until the disease is advanced, which is why regular check-ups are important.

Yes. Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted or impacted can cause pain, swelling, infection and bad breath. Learn more on our wisdom teeth extraction page.

Yes. Teeth grinding wears away enamel and can cause tiny cracks, both of which lead to sensitivity. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth.

Some people experience temporary sensitivity during or after teeth whitening. It usually settles within a few days. We can recommend products to reduce sensitivity and tailor treatment to suit you.

You are not alone. We take things slowly, make sure you are completely numb and offer nitrous oxide (happy gas) and IV conscious sedation. Visit our anxiety and fear page for more information.

Costs depend on the cause and the treatment needed. We will examine the tooth, explain what is causing the pain and give you a quote before any treatment. We accept all health funds, claim on the spot with HICAPS and offer payment plans through Zippay, Afterpay and DentiCare.

Yes. We can relieve your pain first and then create a plan for further treatment with advice on how urgent each step is. Payment plans are available, subject to approval.

• Brush gently twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Wear a night guard if you grind
• Visit us every six months for a check-up and clean

Tranquility Dentistry is at Shop 7, 428 Warwick Road, Yamanto, close to Raceview and Flinders View. We help patients in pain from Deebing Heights, Ripley, Amberley, Willowbank, Springfield, Redbank, Brassall, Karalee and across the Ipswich region.

Call (07) 3060 4724 before noon for a guaranteed same-day appointment, email info@tranquilitydentistry.com.au or book online. Please book even for minor sensitivity, before it becomes worse.