Is it Normal for Teeth to Tingle?

There is no denying it when it comes to throbbing pain or the dull ache that can come with infection. Something is going on, and you will likely schedule with your dentist as soon as possible.

There are also times that you may experience more of a tingling sensation. While a minor tingling sensation may not be as painful, it is also something that should not be ignored. Often a tooth that has this symptom has experienced trauma of some sort. If you have a tooth that is tingling, it is good to call your dental office for a check-up.

Your Teeth And Sensations

Did you know that your teeth are alive? Each tooth has its blood supply and nerve tissue that runs right through the center of it. This allows your tooth to tell when you bit into an ice cream cone or have taken a sip of hot coffee.

Nerves also allow your teeth to know if you have a tooth in distress. A tingling sensation could be letting you know that your tooth is experiencing one of the following problems.

Bruxism Trauma

If you grind your teeth at night, you are experiencing bruxism or nocturnal grinding. Grinding your teeth can cause permanent damage. Your chewing muscles are powerful, and they can cause lots of tooth-on-tooth wear if activated during sleeping.

Grinding can cause enamel wear, chipped teeth, and also damaged fillings. It can also damage the pulp of your tooth, which may result in your tooth tingling. Over time, the pulp damage could lead to the tooth dying. If this happens, your tooth may experience an infection, and root canal treatment would likely result.

Over Brushing And Toothbrush Trauma

Wear on your teeth can occur from more than tooth-on-tooth grinding. Things like over-brushing or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can also cause wear on your teeth. Over years of brushing too vigorously or using too hard of a toothbrush can lead to tooth wear. This, too, can lead to irritation of the pulp.

Faulty Fillings And Tingling Sensations

If a dental filling breaks down and needs replacement, you may experience a tingling sensation. However, you may also notice this tingling sensation on a new filling. If this happens, it could be that the filling is too high.

It is best to let your dentist know if you are experiencing any tooth sensations. They can diagnose your situation and tell you what steps to take before the symptoms worsen.

Preventing Bigger Problems

It may be tempting to ignore your tooth’s tingling, but we don’t recommend it. Teeth issues often start small and grow over time. What sometimes starts as only a tiny cavity can develop over time into an extensive infection. What once could have been repaired with a small filling may now require a root canal and a crown.

Fixing The Tingling

Your dentist might offer different solutions or treatment options depending on what is causing your tingling. If it is tooth grinding that is causing the tingling, a night guard may be recommended while you sleep.

If a new filling gives you tingling sensations, you might need to stop at the office and have your new filling’s height adjusted. You should have it evaluated for leaks, wear, or fracture lines if it is an old filling. It may benefit from a new filling or a crown.

We don’t recommend that you try to diagnose the tingling on your own just as we don’t advise ignoring it. Reach your dentist if you are experiencing any abnormal sensations in your mouth; they will help your tooth get the attention it needs.