Sensitive Teeth? Top Products and Tips to Keep You Smiling
Tooth sensitivity is a common issue experienced by people worldwide. With the growing demand for products designed to alleviate this discomfort, researchers have developed new and advanced tools that help maintain proper oral hygiene without causing pain.
Dental Art St Kilda encourages patients to use these efficient products to manage tooth sensitivity. However, it’s important to ensure the root cause of the sensitivity is not related to gum disease, decay, or infections. If it is, you’ll need to address this underlying condition before using new products to maintain oral hygiene.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
When the dentin beneath the enamel is exposed, the canals leading to the nerves in your tooth can trigger sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Wear and tear of the tooth enamel surface increases the likelihood of experiencing sensitivity. Additionally, chemicals in tooth whitening products are known culprits, as well as acidic foods like alcohol, citrus juices, and pickles that react with the enamel, causing breakdown and heightened sensitivity. Others may experience sensitivity as they age and their gums begin to recede. Regardless of the cause, tooth sensitivity is unpleasant and should be addressed promptly.
Which Products Should You Try?
Different products work for different patients. If a dentist-recommended product doesn’t help, discuss alternatives at your next appointment. Here are some of the most popular products for sensitive teeth:
- Curasept Toothpaste: Contains Chlorhexidine, which adheres to teeth and fights bacteria for up to 12 hours. It’s free of sodium lauryl sulfate, which can cause mouth ulcers, and the gel form soothes gums and protects against cavities. Ideal for daily use, it can be paired with Chlorhexidine mouthwashes for thorough cleaning.
- Colgate Neutrafluor 5000 Sensitive: This toothpaste is perfect for those prone to tooth decay and sensitivity. Suitable for daily use by adults and children over 12, it combines sodium fluoride, which fights bacteria, and potassium nitrate, which desensitizes nerve fibers.
- Oral-B Sensitive Brush Heads: These brush heads feature extra-soft bristles that won’t harm gums but effectively clean teeth and break down plaque. The bristles also have a fade indicator to signal when it’s time to replace the brush head.
- Oral-B Triumph 5000 Wireless Smart Guide: This electric toothbrush is designed to assist with the removal of surface stains to aid in dental whitening. It features five customized brushing modes—including a setting for sensitive teeth—and an integrated pressure control sensor that alerts users if too much pressure is applied. Operating with 40,000 pulsations and 8,800 oscillations per minute, the brush head mechanically disrupts and sweeps away dental plaque to support daily oral hygiene.
If you have more questions about the products or brands we carry, visit us online or call Dental Art St Kilda at (03) 9527 2273.
