Sensitive teeth

This may not seem as a potentially sensitive issue, but more often than not, many people are embarrassed to admit that they suffer from tooth sensitivity. This predicament forces them to shun group outings or even dinner parties as they will be ashamed that they can't eat or taste some of the food due to their "condition".

As always, it is good to be tactful and considerate when approaching the subject matter. Let them know that they can have relief and that this is a common problem.

Globally, it is estimated that approximately one out of two people suffer from tooth sensitivity. Based on the Colgate Malaysia Omnibus Study, 14 per cent of Malaysians have reported incidences of tooth sensitivity and the issue is also an increasing concern amongst the public here.

For instance, sweet or sour food and drinks can trigger the sensations so feared by sensitive-teeth sufferers.

Tooth sensitivity is caused when the middle layer (or dentine) of a tooth is exposed. Dentine is covered by enamel right above the gum line, and by cementum right below the gum line. The dentine has small openings called tubules, each of which has nerve evenings. Exposed dentine makes the tubules vulnerable to external factors that can cause sensitive teeth, such as hot and cold temperatures and pressure. This causes hypersensitivity.

Fortunately, sufferers can now find instant relief, thanks to a new breakthrough by Colgate called Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief.

How does Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief work?

While most sensitive toothpastes work by numbing pain at the nerve endings, Colgate's Pro-Argin technology works by plugging dentine tubules that lead to sensitive tooth nerves, blocking the transmission of heat, cold, air and pressure that stimulate pain receptors within teeth.

Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief can be directly applied to a sensitive tooth, using a fingertip to gently massage for a minute, to deliver instant relief.

Regular brushing with Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief toothpaste builds a long-lasting protective barrier that acts like a seal against sensitivity.

Pro-Argin technology was previously only available in dentists' practices as a professional solution for dentine hypersensitivity. With the introduction of Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief for everyone, the Malaysian Dental Association has recognised its effectiveness by awarding it the MDA seal.

The only sensitive toothpaste to be endorsed by the Malaysian Dental Association, it is also certified to be halal by Jakim.