Sensitive teeth can be a real pain. That sharp, shooting pain that happens when you eat or drink something hot or cold is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. And for many, Sensodyne toothpaste has been a trusted remedy. However, there are instances when using Sensodyne can actually make your teeth hurt worse. In this blog post, we will explore why this might be happening and what you can do about it.
1. The Wrong Sensodyne
Sensodyne offers a range of toothpaste variants designed to address specific needs. For instance, Sensodyne Pronamel is formulated to strengthen teeth enamel, while Sensodyne Rapid Relief provides fast relief for sensitive teeth. If you’re using the wrong variant for your specific issue, then it’s possible that the toothpaste might worsen your sensitivity. For example, if you’re using Sensodyne Rapid Relief for enamel erosion, you might expose your teeth to increased sensitivity.
2. Gingivitis or Gum Disease
Sensitive teeth can be a symptom of gum disease or gingivitis. In such cases, using toothpaste with certain active ingredients can aggravate your sensitivity. Hydrated silica, an abrasive used in many toothpaste brands, can be particularly problematic for those with gum disease since it can abrate already weakened gum tissue. Therefore, switching to a gentler formula might be better for your oral health.
3. Overbrushing
Brushing your teeth too forcefully or too often can also lead to sensitivity. While Sensodyne can help provide relief for tooth sensitivity, it cannot reverse the damage caused by extreme brushing. Thus, make sure to brush your teeth gently with a toothbrush with soft bristles. You can also switch to an electric toothbrush that has a pressure sensor to alert you when brushing too hard.
4. Acidic Foods and Drinks
If you consume food and drinks with high acidity, such as orange juice, coffee, or soda, then your teeth’s enamel can weaken over time. Using Sensodyne to brush your teeth can exacerbate this sensitivity since many of its formulations contain sulfates, which can weaken tooth enamel. Instead, wait at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking an acidic food or beverage before brushing your teeth.
5. Underlying Dental Problems
Sometimes tooth sensitivity is merely a symptom of an underlying dental problem. If you’ve been using Sensodyne with little to no improvement, then it’s possible that you have a bigger dental issue that warrants a trip to your dentist. Tooth decay, cracked teeth, and other oral health problems can all cause tooth sensitivity and must be addressed by a professional dentist.
6. Allergies
Allergies to ingredients in toothpaste can also contribute to increased sensitivity. Sensodyne contains compounds such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which are common irritants that might trigger an allergic reaction. If you’re allergic to SLS, then it’s best to choose toothpaste without this ingredient.
How to fix tooth sensitivity issues at home
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are many remedies that you can do at home to help reduce the discomfort.
1. Change your toothpaste
When it comes to addressing tooth sensitivity, switching to a toothpaste specifically formulated for this issue can be beneficial. Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief is one such product and has been clinically proven to reduce sensitivity in as little as two weeks. It contains an active ingredient called strontium chloride, which blocks the pathways that transmit pain signals from the tooth to the nerve. Additionally, it also contains potassium nitrate, which helps soothe any remaining discomfort.
2. Brush your teeth correctly a gently
Another way to help reduce tooth sensitivity is to make sure that you’re brushing your teeth correctly and with a soft-bristled brush. Brushing too hard can lead to worn enamel, which can then lead to increased sensitivity. Be sure to use gentle circular motions when brushing and avoid scrubbing the teeth.
3. Use desensitizing products
Desensitizing toothpaste, mouthwashes, or gels are other helpful tools for reducing tooth sensitivity at home. Many of these products contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which block pain signals from the nerve endings in the tooth. Additionally, some even contain fluoride, which helps strengthen weakened enamel and reduce further discomfort.
4. Saltwater
For those who prefer natural remedies, gentle brushing with a soft-bristled brush and warm salt water can help alleviate sensitivity. The saltwater helps reduce inflammation and cleanse away any bacteria or debris in your mouth that could be causing irritation. Avoiding acidic foods and drinks is also important since these can weaken enamel and aggravate existing sensitivity.
If you’re experiencing extreme pain due to your sensitive teeth, consider desensitizing gels or sprays, such as Orajel Sensitive Teeth Oral Anesthetic, formulated to temporarily numb the nerves in your mouth.
5. Floss daily
Flossing is an important part of oral care, and it can help reduce tooth sensitivity as well. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth that can cause irritation or wear down enamel. If you’re experiencing discomfort while flossing, then consider switching to waxed floss, which slides more easily between teeth. Additionally, be sure to use gentle pulling motions when flossing instead of sawing the floss back and forth in order to avoid irritating sensitive areas.
6. Visit your dentist
Finally, if none of these remedies work for you then it’s best to consult with your dentist to determine if there is an underlying dental issue causing the sensitivity. Your dentist can help diagnose any problems and provide treatment options such as root canal therapy or fillings that can help reduce sensitivity in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity and have been using Sensodyne toothpaste, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help:
Can I still use Sensodyne toothpaste if it makes my teeth hurt?
If Sensodyne toothpaste is causing increased sensitivity, you may want to consider switching to a different toothpaste. However, if you’re experiencing sensitivity due to exposed dentin, Sensodyne toothpaste may still be effective in reducing sensitivity. It’s important to speak with your dentist to determine the cause of your sensitivity and whether Sensodyne toothpaste is the right choice for you.
How long does it take for Sensodyne toothpaste to work?
Sensodyne toothpaste can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to start working. It’s important to use Sensodyne toothpaste as directed and to be patient. If you’re still experiencing sensitivity after a few weeks, speak with your dentist to determine if there may be an underlying issue causing your sensitivity.
Can Sensodyne toothpaste be used for other dental issues?
Sensodyne toothpaste is designed specifically to reduce tooth sensitivity. It may not be effective in treating other dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease. If you’re experiencing other dental issues, it’s important to speak with your dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
Sensodyne can be an excellent tool for combating tooth sensitivity, but it’s essential to understand why your teeth are sensitive in the first place before you use it. As we’ve mentioned, using the wrong variant, overbrushing, or underlying dental problems can all lead to tooth sensitivity that might not improve with Sensodyne. Therefore, if you still experience sensitivity even after using Sensodyne, it might be time to consult your dentist for further measures.
By understanding the possible causes of tooth sensitivity and taking steps to address them, you can ensure that your teeth remain healthy and comfortable. With proper care and Sensodyne, you can say goodbye to sensitive teeth for good!
