Categories: General Dentist

Preparing for Your Hygiene Appointment When You Have Sensitive Teeth

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. 

How to prepare for your hygiene appointment

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. 

What is a hygiene appointment for sensitive teeth?

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. 

How can a dentist treat sensitive teeth?

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. 

When to consider seeing the dentist for sensitive teeth

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:

  • Tooth decay
  • Tooth damage
  • Gum recession
  • Stained teeth
  • Swollen gums

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. 

Talk to a dentist about sensitive teeth treatment

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.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Explaining The Veneer Process: The Crucial Role Of Shaving

Dental veneers are a game-changer in cosmetic dentistry. They offer a safe, effective, and stunning way to correct dental imperfections, giving patients the confidence to showcase a radiant smile. At St. George Dental Care, we often receive questions about dental work and the "veneers process shaving" involved in applying veneers. This guide aims to demystify…

Choosing The Best Toothpaste For Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can turn simple joys, like sipping hot coffee or enjoying ice cream, into uncomfortable experiences. If you've been dealing with this issue, you're not alone. Dental sensitivity affects millions of people and can significantly impact oral health and quality of life. The good news? The right toothpaste can make a huge difference. This…

Understanding Dental Care: Why Your Temporary Crown Feels Weird

If you've recently had a dental procedure and received a temporary crown, you might wonder why things feel a bit… off. "My temporary crown feels weird" is a common concern patients express. This treatment plays a crucial role in restorative dentistry, yet the unfamiliar sensations it creates often leave patients feeling confused or concerned. At…

How To Fix Bad Breath And Maintain A Fresh Smile

Bad breath can be embarrassing and frustrating. Whether heading into a business meeting or spending time with loved ones, the last thing you want to worry about is how your breath smells. But bad breath, or halitosis, is more common than you might think and often stems from factors you can quickly address. At St.…

St. George Dental Care

Share
Published by
St. George Dental Care

Recent Posts

Explaining the Veneer Process: The Crucial Role of Shaving

Dental veneers are a game-changer in cosmetic dentistry. They offer a safe, effective, and stunning…

1 day ago

Choosing the Best Toothpaste for Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can turn simple joys, like sipping hot coffee or enjoying ice cream, into…

2 days ago

Understanding Dental Care: Why Your Temporary Crown Feels Weird

If you've recently had a dental procedure and received a temporary crown, you might wonder…

3 days ago

How to Fix Bad Breath and Maintain a Fresh Smile

Bad breath can be embarrassing and frustrating. Whether heading into a business meeting or spending…

4 days ago

Before and After Teeth Shaving at St. George Dental Care

Teeth shaving is often misunderstood, but it offers significant benefits for dental health. It's not…

5 days ago

Understanding the Look of Temporary Crowns

Have you recently had a dental procedure and are now dealing with temporary crowns? You're…

1 month ago