The OPTISMILE Podcast 78 - Sensitive Teeth & Erosion - Detect, Reverse, Protect

Chapters:






(1:13) What are the early signs of erosion that patients often miss at home?






Enamel looks smooth, shiny, and glassy; edges become translucent; molars show “cupping” or bowl-shaped wear. These are clear indicators of enamel thinning.






(3:58) Can people do DIY checks for erosion?


Yes. Use bright light or a car’s rear-view mirror, check for translucency at edges, run your tongue over molars for lost points, and take a flash photo to zoom in. Raised fillings can also indicate surrounding enamel loss.






(5:14) Which toothpaste ingredients really help with sensitivity?

• Sodium fluoride – everyday protection
• Stannous fluoride – desensitises but alters taste
• Arginine + calcium carbonate – plugs tubules and balances pH
• Nano-hydroxyapatite – rebuilds enamel crystals
• Potassium nitrate – numbs nerve endings
• They reduce symptoms but don’t restore lost enamel.





(7:04) What’s better: fluoride rinses or high-fluoride toothpaste?


High-fluoride toothpaste (e.g. Clinpro 5000 ppm) is more effective for high-risk patients. Avoid alcohol-based rinses. Never rinse right after brushing, as it washes away fluoride.






(8:14) Do strengthening pastes like Tooth Mousse work?


Yes. They deliver calcium and phosphate directly into enamel. Apply after acid exposure or before bed, when saliva flow drops, for maximum benefit.






(9:35) What’s the best morning routine with brushing, lemon water, and coffee?


Brush immediately on waking to protect teeth. Avoid brushing straight after lemon water or coffee; instead, rinse with plain water and wait 30–60 minutes. Chew sugar-free gum if needed.






(10:33) How can saliva be boosted as a natural defence?


Stay hydrated, chew sugar-free gum with xylitol, snack on fibrous foods like apples and celery, and avoid smoking. Saliva buffers acids and repairs enamel.






(11:33) When should dentists intervene instead of watch and wait?


If erosion is visible, sensitivity is persistent, or appearance is affected. Solutions include resin infiltration, micro-bonding at the gum line, and injection-moulded composite bonding.






(12:36) How should reflux, bulimia recovery, or morning sickness patients protect teeth?


Approach with compassion. Rinse with water or bicarbonate after acid exposure, use remineralising pastes, and avoid brushing immediately after regurgitation.






(13:55) What’s the game plan for athletes and health fanatics?

• Avoid sipping acidic sports drinks; use bottles with straws/nozzles
• Carry plain water alongside energy drinks
• Avoid grazing citrus during workouts
• Book regular check-ups to catch early erosion





Further Resources

1. Sensitive Teeth & Erosion: The Health Habits Harming Your Enamel (https://optismile.co.za/blog/sensitiv...) OptiSmile Dentistry (https://optismile.co.za/blog/sensitiv...)
2. Acid Reflux & Tooth Erosion (https://optismile.co.za/blog/acid-ref...) OptiSmile Dentistry (https://optismile.co.za/blog/acid-ref...)
3. Dental Bonding (OptiSmile service page) (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...) OptiSmile Dentistry (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...)
4. Injection Moulding Technique for Composite Veneers & Bonding (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...) OptiSmile Dentistry (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...)
5. Teeth Cleaning (Scaling & Polishing) (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...) OptiSmile Dentistry (https://optismile.co.za/dental-soluti...)





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Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here a...