Project Smiles 32

Tooth sensitivity is a painful response that results from exposure of the inner layer (dentine) of a tooth. Exposure could be as a result of tooth crack, severe attrition, cervical abrasion, acidic food consumption, failed tooth restoration. Symptoms include a sharp pain that result from taking hot or cold drinks, air blowing into the mouth, contact with apposing tooth, intake of acidic food, gum recession,etc. Use a toothpaste designed to reduce sensitivity. Use FDA approved desensitizing toothpaste such as Crest Sensitive, Sensodyne Pronamel, Sensodyne Rapid Action and several others over the counter toothpastes. The effectiveness of these toothpastes depends on regular usage over an extended period of time. For very tender areas, try rubbing a bit of densitizing toothpaste directly on the tooth.

Use a soft tooth brush. Overzealous brushing with hard tooth brush will only remove the protective layer (enamel) of the tooth especially along the gum line. Soft brushing and gentle up and dow…

Always use proper technique when brushing. Remember, you are brushing all the surfaces of the teeth, tongue, and the palate. Change your brush as soon as you notice the bristles start fraying or about every 3 months or sooner if needed. Use age appropriate tooth brushBrush for 2 minutes at least twice a day. Don’t brush too hard, it’s not how hard you brush, but how thoroughly you brush with the right technique. Wait 30 minutes after eating before brushing, especially if you’ve been eating acidic foods like citrus or sodas. Don’t use a hard bristled brush like popular smoker brush, which can erode the outer surface of the teeth(enamel), especially along the gum line (cervical abrasion). Remember, it only takes soft bristles to remove the plaque. Always use proper technique when brushing. Remember, you are brushing all the surfaces of the teeth, tongue, and the palate.Don’t hesitate to contact me for further clarification. Dr. Odeyemi Kolade, Project Smile 32 Senior facilitator  0906-1999-927…