245 February 2015 - Gryffe Advertizer

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Dental Blog
by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan
Dental Practice
Are you the sensitive type?
volunteers needed!
Do you have parenting experience and 2-3 hours per
week to spare to support families in Renfrewshire?
New training course starting mid February, just 2
mornings per week for 5 weeks!
Please get in touch to have an informal chat with
one of our friendly staff about volunteering with us. We would love to hear
from you! Call us on 0141 889
5272 or email: theteam@
home-start-renfrewshire.org.
uk
www.home-start-renfrewshire.
org.uk Like us on Facebook -
Home-Start Renfrewshire
You will have seen the toothpaste adverts highlighting the issue of sensitive
teeth which is a common problem.
It is often experienced when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet
or acidic and is the result of the thinning of enamel over time or receding
gums - both of which can expose a layer of dentin that surrounds the nerve.
Without the full protective benefits of enamel, pores in the dentin can become
exposed and stimulated by temperature changes or certain foods.
Bad dental hygiene is one of the main causes as it can lead to receding gums,
gum disease and loss of enamel. As well as brushing incorrectly, excessive
brushing and the use of an over-abrasive toothpaste can contribute. Acidic
drinks such as pop or even healthy fruit juices can also attack the enamel
and tooth grinding and chipped teeth may expose the dentin.
The first step to rectifying the problem is to consult with a dental professional
to establish the cause and agree the best solution. A good brushing
technique and using proper equipment should be things you do as a matter
of course but, if not, these will help – use a suitable toothbrush which should
be changed at least every 3 months and a toothpaste specially formulated to
help reduce sensitivity. Avoid too many acidic drinks and try and remember to
consume them with a meal and leave an hour before brushing as the enamel
remains soft for this time.
If your dentist feels additional treatment is needed they can apply a fluoride
varnish to the area, prescribe a high fluoride toothpaste or replace lost
enamel with dental restoration.
If you have any queries regarding your oral health don’t hesitate to visit
us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call us on 01505 704969 or click www.
kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips and advice
including articles on oral health regimes.