For the past few weeks, my upper right lateral incisor has been sensitive near the gumline. It feels like nerve pain and is only sensitive to hard objects like my toothbrush, a toothpick, or fingernail. The tooth is not sensitive to heat or cold. What could cause this sensation? Thanks. Drake from CA

Drake,

A dentist must examine your tooth and gums and take an X-ray. See a dentist promptly because lingering sensitivity can lead to nerve damage and require root canal treatment.

It is positive if the tooth is not heat—or cold-sensitive. A dentist can often seal a tooth with composite in the sensitive spot.

What Can Cause Tooth Sensitivity Near the Gumline?

Tooth sensitivity near the gumline may occur with repeated tooth flexing if tiny particles of tooth structure break off. Normal wear or teeth grinding or clenching can accelerate the flexing. Getting a filling to stay in place near the gumline can be challenging. However, a flexible filling material, such as microfill composite has good results.

So, ask your dentist to seal over the sensitive spot. If there’s enough space for a filling, ask him or her to apply a small amount of microfill composite over the spot. This should eliminate the sensitivity.

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