Top 10 Tips For Looking After Sensitive Teeth
By leading celebrity dentist Dr Richard Marques of Wimpole Street Dental
1 Switch to a desensitising toothpaste. The active ingredients can block the tiny holes in the surface of the teeth and act as a shield by calming any exposed nerves.
2 Cut out any exceptionally hot or cold beverages. Extreme temperatures will trigger sensitivity, so stick to room temperature drinks and use lukewarm water when brushing your teeth.
3 A cause of the sensitivity could be that you’re grinding your teeth whilst you sleep. Your dentist will be able to fit a night guard for you to wear, which will help prevent further damage.
4 Ensure you’re using a soft bristled or electric toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions. Aggressive brushing can wear away tooth enamel, exposing teeth to sensitivity.
Pic: iStockphoto
5 Use a mouthwash that is high in fluoride and will help strengthen tooth enamel, but that does not contain harsh or abrasive chemicals including alcohol.
6 Try to avoid acidic food and drink including fruit, vinegar and alcohol. The high sugar content and acidity can cause erosion and damage the enamel – both of which are leading causes of sensitive teeth and gums.
7 Make sure you drink through a straw. In doing so the liquid will bypass the teeth, giving you a better chance at avoiding both damage and sensitivity.
8 Wait at least half an hour after eating or drinking to brush your teeth. This will give the enamel a chance to re-harden. Brushing too soon could actually push acids deeper into the teeth which can cause erosion.
Pic: Shutterstock
9 Hold off on any whitening treatments when sensitivity becomes uncomfortable. You can still use natural whiteners such as strawberries and coconut oil to keep your smile bright!
Pic; Susie White
10 Maintaining good overall dental hygiene is the best defence against sensitivity. Brush, floss and rinse thoroughly but carefully twice a day, and visit your dentist every six months for a check-up!
Pic: Shutterstock
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Moira Chisholm
I'm the Health Editor on My Weekly and am always interested to hear what's new in this fascinating field. I also deal with the gardening, shopping pages, general features, our website content and the Ask Helen problem page. I have a special interest in Christmas content because I'm on the team for Your Best Ever Christmas Magazine, too!
