Celebrity mom Chesca Kramer, who is an oral healthcare advocate, recalls how she and husband Doug would cap off their romantic dinner dates with sweet indulgences.
“There are moments however where I feel that sharp pain in my teeth, preventing me from truly enjoying our date,” shares Chesca.
According to a study in 2011 by the National Monitoring and Evaluation Dental Survey, 48 percent of Filipinos suffer from some form of gum disease. Receding gums are often accompanied with teeth sensitivity or pangingilo.
Commonly caused by wearing of enamel (the thin outer covering of the tooth), over-brushing, acidic food, and gum receding, pangingilo or dental hypersensitivity begins when the inner part of the tooth, called dentine, is uncovered. Once this part of the tooth is exposed, various external triggers such eating sweets can easily agitate the nerves inside the tooth. When left untreated, it can lead to further pain and swelling that can even lead to tooth removal.
To prevent this from happening, toothpaste brand Gumtect Sensitive shares tips on how to prevent pangingilo from ruining any future memories:
Avoid highly acidic food
Acidic food items, such as meat, dairy, sugar, and coffee contribute to tooth sensitivity as they can tear away the tooth enamel. The key is to balance them with food high in alkaline like fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitizing toothpaste
Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can tear down the tooth enamel, exposing it to the sensitive root area. Along with a soft-bristled toothbrush, desensitizing toothpaste would make sure that the teeth are well protected every day. Gumtect Sensitive has a Dynamic Desensitizing System that aids in preventing the pain caused by sensitive teeth as it protects the exposed dentine of the teeth. It also has Gumshield+ that helps repair, renew, and rejuvenate gums, as well as Active Anti-Cavity Protection that ensures fresh breath and strong teeth enamel.
Clean mouth regularly
Plaque that clings to teeth also causes tooth sensitivity. Drinking the recommended eight glasses of water every day would help get rid of them. For tougher and stickier plaques, use Gumtect Sensitive Mouthwash that easily cleanses in between teeth, tongue, and cheeks.
Visit your dentist
There is a general rule of thumb to visit a dentist at least twice a year. Even if a person feels that their gums are in top shape, there are symptoms that are not easily recognized unless checked by a professional.