Hygiene appointments are a great way to deal with sensitive teeth, especially when teeth remain sensitive for an extended period of time despite at-home efforts to reverse it. By visiting your dentist for a hygiene appointment, you can determine the exact cause of sensitive teeth and begin the treatment process.
There are certain things every patient can do to prepare both mentally and physically before they arrive at the dentist. The following is a complete overview of what a hygiene appointment might involve and how a dentist can effectively treat sensitive teeth long-term.
A hygiene appointment for sensitive teeth is a dental visit in which the main goal is to diagnose the cause and treat tooth sensitivity. There are many different reasons why a tooth, or multiple teeth, may become sensitive, and it is important to determine the cause early to prevent the problem from getting worse. Sensitive teeth may be the result of enamel erosion, an infection of the tooth pulp or tooth damage. In all three of these scenarios, sensitive teeth are not likely to improve on their own, and it is crucial to visit the dentist for a hygiene appointment.
The treatment for sensitive teeth depends on what is causing the sensitivity in the first place. In the event it is caused by weakened enamel, treatment may be as simple as a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen the enamel. However, enamel erosion (cavities) likely require a dental filling to treat the issue. Sensitive teeth caused by tooth damage, such as a chipped or cracked tooth, may require dental bonding, dental veneers or a crown, although there are other options as well. Other treatment options include root canal therapy, treatment for gum recession and lifestyle changes to improve hygiene and limit consumption of harmful foods and drinks.
It is important to recognize the signs of a more serious case of sensitive teeth to know when to visit the dentist. Of course, the most obvious symptom to be mindful of is sensitivity that is moderate to severe, especially when exposed to hot or cold substances or pressure. Several other signs that indicate a hygiene appointment is required include:
The earlier you visit the dentist the easier it often is to treat the sensitivity. If any of the aforementioned symptoms exist, the issue is unlikely to improve on its own and a dental procedure during the hygiene appointment will most likely be required.
No one should have to live with sensitive teeth, and it is easier than ever before for dentists to treat the issue. If you struggle with teeth sensitivity and want to find out what treatment options are available, consult with us today and schedule a time to come in for a hygiene appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com or call St. George Dental Care at (435) 628-9099 for an appointment in our St George office.
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