Okay, this is a long story but, in a nut shell, I can't use toothpaste/tooth powder or mouthwash without gagging and occasionally vomiting. I'm not pregnant, I've had this problem literally since I was a kid.
It came about when my Dad decided to try me on the mintiest, strongest Colgate toothpaste when I was very little (can't remember how old exactly, but I remember the event only too well). I remember heaving and gagging and vomiting and it was absolutely terrible. I ended up only being able to brush my teeth with water (I think I tried salt at one point too which was okay but seemed pointless). I can't stand the smell or taste of mint or anything even vaguely minty. Just the smell makes me gag! I also have issues with stuff foaming in my mouth. I have issues at the Dentist with anything that tastes bad. I can't handle having my teeth cleaned because the tooth powder they use makes me gag. I also hate the taste of the injections and treatment, I am often sedated.
My teeth don't look awful (but they aren't lovely and white because I can't use whitening toothpaste). I don't have bad breath but my dentist bills are enormous (I'm private because I need sedation). I'm 30 and I've had three root canals already. Crappy teeth run in the family but mine are the worst.
I can use and do use Xylitol and Hydrogen Peroxide as a mouthwash but I have concerns about the HP because I've heard it can wear away tooth enamel and mine is surely weaker than most.
Am considering giving this a go, as I can leave out the mint and it hopefully won't foam:
wellnessmama.com/5252/remineralizing-tooth-powder-recipe/
I've ordered this just because it's not minty, although I've been putting off trying it because of the thought of gagging: www.amazon.co.uk/Eucryl-Smokers-Tooth-Powder-Original/dp/B001ECQRU0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382859534&sr=8-1&keywords=tooth%20powder&tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21
My cousin's daughter appears to have the same problem. She's been doing fine on the strawberry toothpastes but needs to move on up to the next kids toothpaste level and she's been gagging too. Seems to run in the family, what the hell is it?
My questions are:
- Has anyone else got this/heard of it?
- Does anyone have any suggestions?
I expect some of you to be horrified. I know it sounds utterly disgusting. I am filled with shame about it, so nothing you can say to me will make me feel any worse!