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Dover Family Dentistry’s Guide to Fighting Tooth Sensitivity in Mountain Home

By Dover Family Dentistry

The day is over. Finally, you’re enjoying the end of the day with a cold drink. You take a sip—and wince. That shock of pain in your teeth ruins the pleasure.

Teeth sensitivity is understated until it disrupts normal life. Your first cup of morning coffee, a bite of ice cream, a cold stream of air – those quick shocks can build up fast. People often sweep it under the carpet, blaming it on age or whitening toothpaste. Not treating it could lead to more serious mouth problems.

We come across it a lot here at Dover Family Dentistry. Patients don’t realize how common it is or how you can correct it. Tooth sensitivity could be the warning sign. It might be early enamel loss, exposed roots, or even a tiny crack you can’t spot. If you don’t take care of it, it could become something severe.

Let’s break down what causes tooth sensitivity and how you can solve it.

What’s Causing That Sensitivity?

All sensitive teeth are not equal. Some feel it in one area, whereas others feel it in more than one tooth. Here’s what generally causes it:

Worn Tooth Enamel

Hard brushing, abrasive toothpaste, or repeated acid wear can wear off enamel. That exposes the dentin layer underneath, which contains tiny tubes running into your tooth’s nerve.

Gum Recession

When gums pull away from your teeth, typically due to gum disease or overbrushing, they expose the roots. Roots lack enamel and are, hence, more vulnerable.

Tooth Decay or Cracks

A small cavity or hairline fracture can give direct access to your nerve. These need to be attended to instantly before more damage is caused.

Teeth Grinding

Night grinding, or bruxism, puts your teeth under extremely strong pressure. It will wear down enamel over time and can make tiny cracks.

Dental Work

On occasion, new cleanings, fillings, or whitening procedures will temporarily make teeth sensitive. This usually disappears in a couple of days.

How Your Dentist in Mountain Home Can Help

At Dover Family Dentistry, we screen thoroughly before treating. Addressing the cause behind it is vital to long-term relief.

This is what we usually help patients who have sensitivity to:

  • Fluoride Treatments: Strengthens enamel and reduces exposure of the nerve.
  • Desensitizing Toothpaste: Stops sensation from reaching the nerve after a while.
  • Bonding Agents: Covers exposed root surfaces and improves symptoms.
  • Mouthguards: Stop grinding damage while asleep.
  • Gum Treatments: In cases where recession is advanced or accompanied by gum disease.

Every treatment plan is tailored to what’s happening and irritating you. That’s why it’s important not to treat yourself or delay care. Get treated by the local dentist in Mountain Home

Daily Habits That Make a Difference

Besides in-office treatments, small adjustments at home can remove sensitivity:

  • Take 2 minutes to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Avoid extremely acidic foods and drinks (i.e., soda, citrus, vinegar).
  • Don’t miss dental appointments even if you are pain-free.
  • Inform us if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night.

Periodic dental visits go a long way in catching enamel wear or gum changes before sensitivity becomes a reality. Your Mountain Home dentist is your best friend—not just for resolutions, but also for avoiding them.

Relief Begins with a Visit to Us

Tooth sensitivity does not have to be endured. With proper care, many people experience relief fast and safeguard their smile in the long term. If you’re looking for the best dentist in Mountain Home to assist with sensitive teeth, we’re here to listen and assist.