Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 9/29/2006

Question
Out of nowhere around 2 of my top right molars became extremely
sensitive to cold and hot. It is to the point where I cannot eat
anything on that side of my mouth. It also is sensitive on the
bottom in the same area. I went to an endodontis and a dentist,
both of whom took x-rays, found no cavities in those teeth and
basically told me to suck it up b/c they don't want to do root canals
on healthy teeth. The endodontist did find cavities on both of my
wisdom teeth on the right side and said that could be the cause.
But that is not where I feel pain....I just don't understand and am
miserable every time I eat.

Answer
it could be recession of the gums and the temps are hurting the exposed roots. try using sensodyne toothpaste and see if it helps. if it does not help, then get a second opinion from a different endodontist. you need someone who can be a little more compassionate and not tell you to just suck it up and live with it. it is time to figure out the true diagnosis. try the desensitizing toothpaste first and see if it helps. it does take a few weeks to build up and work. if it gets worse, make the call sooner. good luck...let me know if you have any other questions.

jeff dalin, dds