Mumsnet Dentists? Jasper? Chicagomum?

[tissy]

Wondered if anyone could tell me if there is anything that can be done for sensitivity/ receding gums? My dentist (NHS) just mutters about Sensodyne toothpaste and flossing (both of which I do!). I seem to remember years ago that I had something painted onto my teeth and blitzed with UV light- think that was when i had Denplan, but no-one has suggested it recently.

Think my dental hygiene is OK (the hygienist never seems to complain!)I floss and/ or use TePe brushes most days, but wonder if the electric toothbrush is over doing things. Are the sonic toothbrushes any good or just a gimmick?

Sorry for all the questions, but getting a bit fed up with the agonising pain when I drink cold water!

bump?

Not a dentist, but did see a Watchdog type programme on tv quite a while ago, that said brushing with Sensodyne wouldn't do much good if used in the usual way, as after you brush your teeth you always rinse the paste off. You should, clean your teeth with a normal toothpaste, rinse, then brush with a samll amount of Sensodyne without rinsing. That way you still have the sensodyne coating giving you more protection.

Not sure if it works, but worth a try.

We use a fluoride varnish (called duraphat) to combat sensitivity. I also recommend that patients apply sensodyne directly onto the sensitive areas last thing at night once they know they aren't going to eat or drink (and have cleaned their teeth) so it acts in a much more concentrated way.

There is a toothpaste called Durophat which my dentist recommends - it has extra fluoride in and does a better job of coating/sealing when used as Ailsa says. (I think you can only buy it from your dentist.)

I brush my teeth with an ordinary cheap small-headed brush and the hygienist always says mine are good (would be better with flossing of course ). You could well be overbrushing, although DD2 is in the same boat as you and she brushes too hard with an ordinary brush and was recommended to use an electric one instead!