Having a numb tooth is a strange and often unsettling sensation. You might experience tingling, prickling, or even the feeling that the tooth isn’t there at all — even when biting down on it.

What Causes a Numb Tooth?

There are a few possible reasons for a tooth to go numb. If you’ve recently injured your mouth, the numbness could be temporary and may subside as the area heals. However, if numbness occurs without recent trauma, it could be a sign of a more serious issue — most commonly, tooth decay or nerve damage.

Teeth are alive — each one contains blood vessels and nerves that keep it healthy. When decay or infection cuts off the tooth’s blood supply, the nerve tissue may begin to die. In this case, numbness is often an indicator that your tooth is dying or already dead.

What to Do If Your Tooth Feels Numb

If you ever notice that your tooth feels numb, contact our office immediately. Acting quickly can make the difference between saving or losing the tooth.

Depending on the cause, we may perform a root canal treatment to remove infected pulp and restore the tooth’s health. If the tooth cannot be saved, we’ll discuss restorative options such as a dental crown, implant, or bridge to protect your bite and prevent bone or gum loss.

Leaving a dead or infected tooth untreated can cause further complications, including damage to neighboring teeth and gums. Early intervention is key to maintaining a healthy smile.

If your tooth feels numb or strange, don’t wait — schedule a consultation today so we can determine the cause and help you restore your oral health.