5 ways to improve over-sensitive teeth

Switch to a soft toothbrush 

Many toothbrushes come with stiff bristles, so opting for a softer toothbrush may help reduce the sensitivity of your teeth. Abrasive toothbrushes with stiff bristles are hard on your enamel, which can cause even more microscopic holes on the surface of your teeth. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush can also increase the sensitivity of your gums. So, if you find that your teeth are particularly sensitive during your daily brushing, switching to softer bristles is likely to pay dividends. 

Choose the right toothpaste 

Today, you have so much choice when it comes to the toothpaste you use at home. If you have over-sensitive teeth, choose a toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate, which is known to soothe the nerves inside your teeth. You will also benefit from the inclusion of stannous fluoride, which protects the exposed, soft part of your teeth known as dentin. The next time you go to buy some toothpaste, read the label and pick up a brand that contains these two ingredients. You will also find that some brands market themselves as ideal for sensitive teeth, which will help you find the right product.

Avoid sugary foods and drinks

Sugary foods and drinks can increase the sensitivity of your teeth. Thinks like sweets, chocolate, and fizzy drinks are all bad for your teeth anyway, and they can make sensitive teeth even worse. You should also think about limiting your consumption of things like coffee, pickles, and certain fruits, as they may cause you further discomfort. Switch to nutritious whole foods and look to limit your reliance on sugary, refined foods that don't contribute to your overall health and well-being. 

Rinse your teeth with saltwater 

A simple home remedy for sensitive teeth is to rinse your mouth with saltwater. Add two teaspoons of salt into a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth once in the morning and once in the evening. The reason that saltwater may work is that it reduces bacterial growth in your mouth, creating an alkaline environment. Just be careful not to swallow the salty mouthwash! 

Visit the dentist regularly 

People suffer from sensitive teeth for a wide range of reasons. But if you're struggling with your teeth and experience pain or discomfort when eating or brushing, it's time to book an appointment with a dentist. At Pure Smiles, we advise our clients to check in with us at least twice a year, so we can help them manage their dental hygiene. Sensitive teeth can be a result of a cavity, cracked teeth, or even gum disease, so it's really important not to ignore it, as the sensation is only likely to get worse. 

To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, give us a call today on 0203 613 3324, and one of our friendly team members will get you booked in.