The most common chronic disease among children is tooth decay (TD), which is a completely preventable disease. TD does not stop in childhood, 25% of adults have untreated TD. 20% of adults have periodontal disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and systemic infection…thus impacting a person’s quality of life.
Patients who wait until their tooth decay and gum disease develop into the late stages end up wasting a lot of time and money. There have been recent studies and reports that show total health care costs can be reduced when periodontal disease is successfully treated (http://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797%2814%2900153-6/abstract). This is just one example of the benefits of addressing tooth decay and gum disease.
If you are having sensitivity or pain you may have tooth decay or gum disease and should contact your dentist as soon as possible.