Tooth sensitivity can affect anyone, but it is most common between the ages of 18 and 45. It often affects the front teeth and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.

• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Gum recession (natural or due to gum disease)
• Dental erosion from acidic foods and drinks
• Tooth wear or abrasion
• Tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Cracks in teeth
• Tooth bleaching treatments (usually short-term sensitivity)

Several options can help manage and reduce tooth sensitivity:

• Sensitive toothpastes (such as Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive, etc) – use twice daily, and for best effect:
  • Do not rinse after brushing
  • Rub a small amount directly onto the sensitive areas and leave it in place
• Professional desensitising treatments – your dentist can provide stronger solutions such as:
  • High-strength fluoride gels or rinses
  • Fluoride varnishes
  • Other in-office desensitising products designed to seal exposed dentine

Always consult your dentist to find the most suitable treatment option for your needs.

The best approach is to prevent sensitivity from developing or worsening:

• Oral care habits
  • Use a sensitive or high-fluoride toothpaste daily
  • Brush gently in small circular motions, not side-to-side
  • Consider an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor
• Dietary care
  • Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks
  • Reduce intake of sugary and acidic foods to prevent erosion
• Lifestyle care
  • If you grind your teeth, speak to your dentist about a protective mouth guard
  • Avoid tooth whitening treatments if you already experience sensitivity

While sensitivity can often be managed at home, it is important to have it properly assessed by your dentist. Sensitivity may be a sign of:

• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Cracks or fractures

Your dentist can check the underlying cause, recommend treatment, and help you manage sensitivity so you can enjoy life without discomfort.

Most mouth ulcers are known as traumatic ulcers, meaning they are caused by injury or irritation.

Common causes include:

• Biting your cheek or tongue
• Trauma from a broken or rough tooth
• A blow to the lip or face
• Brushing too hard
• Poorly fitting dentures
• Orthodontic braces rubbing against the mouth

Other causes of mouth ulcers can include:

• Viral infections
• Recurrent aphthous ulceration (aphthous stomatitis) – recurring ulcers
• Vitamin or mineral deficiencies (such as iron, B12 or folate)
• Stress or fatigue
• Certain medical conditions

Often, you can link the ulcer to a clear cause, such as:

• Recently biting your tongue
• A sharp or rough tooth
• A denture rubbing
• A recent dental appliance
• A blow to the face

If you are unsure, the best thing to do is visit your dentist so we can check for any source of irritation or damage.

Removing the source of trauma usually allows the ulcer to heal naturally.

Mouth ulcers are very common and usually heal within 2–3 weeks.

However, you should seek advice from your dentist or doctor if:

• An ulcer lasts longer than three weeks
• It keeps recurring frequently
• You feel generally unwell
• The ulcer is not painful but persists
• It appears under the tongue or in an unusual area

It is important to know that oral cancer can sometimes appear as a persistent mouth ulcer.

Oral cancer ulcers are often:

• Long-lasting
• Non-healing
• Sometimes painless
• Commonly found under the tongue or on the floor of the mouth

This is why any ulcer lasting more than three weeks should always be checked.

At Armagh Dental Clinic, we routinely screen for oral cancer at your check-ups.

Most mouth ulcers heal on their own once the source of irritation is removed.

You can help them heal by:

• Using a soft toothbrush
• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Avoiding acidic, spicy, salty or sharp foods (e.g. crisps)
• Staying well hydrated
• Using an SLS-free toothpaste (if you are prone to ulcers)

If needed, you can try:

• Warm salt water rinses
• Antibacterial mouthwashes (such as Corsodyl)
• Anti-inflammatory rinses or sprays (such as Difflam)
• Protective gels (such as Bonjela)
• Advice and products recommended by your pharmacist

If the ulcer is caused by a rough tooth, broken filling or denture, this will need to be adjusted or smoothed by your dentist.

If an ulcer lasts longer than three weeks, further assessment — and occasionally tests — may be required to determine why it is persisting.

While not all ulcers can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Keeping your mouth clean and healthy
• Attending regular dental check-ups
• Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C and E
• Including plenty of fruit and vegetables
• Using a good quality toothbrush
• Avoiding trauma and irritation

Mouth ulcers are different from cold sores.

• Mouth ulcers occur inside the mouth and are not contagious.

Cold sores usually appear on the outer lips and are caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Please don’t worry — mouth ulcers are extremely common and, in most cases, harmless.

The key message is simple:

✔ Most ulcers heal within 2–3 weeks
✔ They are not contagious
✔ If one lasts longer than three weeks, get it checked

If you are concerned about a mouth ulcer, our team at Armagh Dental Clinic is always happy to help.