Your teeth cannot stand the heat. Or the cold, actually. Maybe even sharp inhales make them sting. This is known as tooth sensitivity, and you probably know someone who experiences similar symptoms. Since it’s a pretty common occurrence, many people aren’t sure whether tender teeth count as a dental emergency.

Tooth sensitivity is usually not an urgent matter and can be treated with regular appointments, but there are some instances where it can indicate something more serious. Keep reading to learn how you can tell the difference!