Dentists' Recommendation

The Cold Season – A Test for Our Teeth

When the weather is cold, many of us suffer from tooth pain when breathing through their mouth. Sensitive teeth are not only complaints of old age. Also younger patients often have questions about this issue to their dentist or dental hygienist. Dentists estimate that 15- 30% of the population suffer from oversensitivity.

When teeth get sensitive to cold and warm (food, drinks, air), we can view the pain as a warning signal. The dental necks, which are normally protected by the hard dental enamel or the gums, are exposed. Reason for this can be either that the gums have receded or that the protective emanel has been abrased or eroded. In order to avoid either cause of the problem, it is essential to clean teeth properly and gently.

Brushing does not always protect teeth

Teeth and gums may be damaged not only if one brushes them too little, but also if one brushes them too often. Gums are pushed away and dental necks are being exposed. The tooth itself may even be damaged! So-called wedge-shaped lesions are then the result. This is especially true if one uses strong pressure and rubs excessively. Rubbing along the dental row harms more than it helps. It is therefore important to use a good toothbrushing technique and brush teeth with a soft toothbrush. How often one needs to brush teeth depends a lot on eating habits. It is mostly recommended to brush twice, brushing in the evening before sleeping is most important.

Exposed dental necks after periodontal treatments

Once the gums have receded, it is not possible to reverse the process, even if the gums are healthy again. This is why the dental necks remain exposed and may lead to oversensibility. Therefore it is very important to brush teeth very gently in order to prevent any further recetion of the gums. The choice of gentle cleaning products is very important.

Action against sensitive teeth

First and most important, one needs to know the right toothbrushing technique. Dentists and dental hygienists will give advise on the right technique. Second most important is to use only particularly soft brushes that clean gently but thoroughly. Studies have shown that soft toothbrushes clean and protect teeth better than hard brushes. Thirdly, use toothpaste with low abrasive value (RDA level of 25-35). If the value is not indicated on the package, it is recommended to call the manufacturer or to use only products that declare their abrasion level. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended to add caries protection.