How-to: solve common mouth issues

Stinky breath. Rotting teeth. Painful ulcers. Sensitivity. Yes, oral health issues are not only annoying, but also extremely uncomfortable.

Despite regular brushing, flossing and check-ups, dental health issues can still occur. The key to combatting these problems is to know when it’s time to consult your dentist, what products to use and what you should and shouldn’t be eating…

HOW TO SOLVE 5 COMMON MOUTH PROBLEMS

#1. Bad breath

Bad breath – or halitosis as it’s officially known – is a rather embarrassing issue. It’s often caused by build-up of bacteria on your tongue, which lets off a rotten-like smell. Nip it in the bud quickly by chewing some breath mints or gum and drinking a glass of water. (Dry mouth is a major cause of bad breath.) Then, purchase a tongue scrapper and use it morning and night. This type of product is more effective at removing plague from the tongue in comparison to your regular toothbrush. Mouthwash is also a worthwhile investment, as is a diet that is free of foods like onion and garlic.
Try:Colgate Plax or Sensodyne Gentle Mouthwash.

#2. Mouth ulcers

Although fairly harmless, mouth ulcers are painful. Accidently biting the inside of your cheek is when most ulcers occur, as the mucous membrane becomes damaged. Mouth ulcers do tend to clear up in a few days, however specific ulcer creams are beneficial for relieving pain and discomfort during this time.
Try: Bonjela Mouth Ulcer Gel.

#3. Tooth decay

Brushing and flossing alone will not ward off tooth decay and erosion – diet plays a significant role, too. Avoiding acidic foods and drinks (read: soft drinks, fruit juices and tomatoes) will help prevent enamel erosion, while reducing your sugar intake will inhibit tooth decay. Regular check-ups with your dentist are also important in maintaining the structure of your teeth – whether you’re suffering from decay or not.

#4. Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth and gums are often cause by over-brushing. Attacking your teeth with hard bristles can wear your gums and enamel away, leaving nerves and dentin exposed, which respond badly to hot or cold sensations. (This is why consuming food and beverages like ice cream or coffee can trigger a painful reaction.) Brushing with a desensitising toothpaste – and rubbing some of the product on your gums – will help relieve the pain and build-up your mouth’s endurance against certain triggers.
Try:Spinbrush PRO SENSITIVE, Reach Dual Effect Toothbrush or Oral-B 7000 Black in sensitive mode with Macleans Sensitive Toothpaste.

#5. Yellow teeth

A diet high in colourful food and drink – and a bad smoking habit – all contributes to yellowing teeth. The good news is this: over-the-counter whitening toothpastes containing hardworking ingredients help shift stains and whiten your smile without breaking the budget. Dentists also offer power-bleaching treatments, which are generally completed in little over an hour and provide dramatic results. However, these do come with a higher price tag and moderate tooth sensitivity can last for days after the treatment.
Try:Rapid White Bright Paste and CleverWhite Super White Range Bundle, or speak to your dentist about the Philips Zoom Light-Activated Whitening System.

Do you suffer from any of these oral health issues? What are your tips for solving these five common teeth problems? Do you take good care of your teeth?