Is there a new way to help with sensitive teeth?

            Many people suffer from sensitivity on there teeth when eating or drinking something hot or cold. If there are no cavities or other issues, we would typically recommend trying to use sensitivity toothpaste twice each day. However, we found many people do not prefer the sensitivity toothpaste over their normal toothpaste. With compliance lacking, the sensitivity would often persist. But recently Crest rolled out a new product aimed to alleviate tooth sensitivity for up to 1 month per application.

            The Crest Sensi-Stop Strips are placed over the teeth and the gums for only 10 minutes, and this can help with sensitivity for up to a full month.

• Advantages over sensitivity toothpaste:
• Immediate relief in 10 minutes vs. days/weeks with toothpaste
• As little as 1 time per month vs. 2 times per day
• Lasts for up to 1 month vs. wearing off without consistent use
• Delivery aimed to specific areas vs. being diluted through the mouth.

The strips use potassium oxalate gel to relieve the sensitivity, which is a common ingredient for treating historically sensitive teeth. The Crest Sensi-Stop Strips have found a way to harness that ingredient into the strip in a way that allows you to effectively deliver it to the problematic area.

            So what are the drawbacks or limitations of the strips? The first would be limited research when compared to the historical success of the sensitivity toothpaste. If you are having success with sensitivity toothpaste, I would suggest you continue with what is currently working. I would also recommend you consult with you dentist before using the strips to make sure there are no other underlying areas of concern or tooth decay. Otherwise the strips may mask an area of sensitivity that needs to be treated differently.

            The new Crest Sensi-Stop Strips look like they could be very helpful for a lot of people with sensitive teeth. If you are thinking about using these, I still strongly recommend you discuss the potential pros and cons of your situation with your dentist.

For more information, visit us at www.brownandkupper.com.

Lee T. Brown, DDS

Brown and Kupper, DDS Inc.