Summary
Have you ever felt a little pain while drinking a hot coffee or enjoying an ice cream? Tooth sensitivity can really be annoying, but there are simple solutions to relieve it, including the simple choice of toothpaste. In this article, we give you all our advice for choosing the best toothpaste possible. And remember that the advice of a dentist is better than anything!
Understanding tooth sensitivity
Causes of tooth sensitivity
Several factors can explain it:
Wear of the enamel : acidic foods, brushing too vigorously or grinding your teeth ( bruxism ) can weaken it, leaving the dentin exposed.
Receding gums : when the gums recede , they reveal the root of the teeth, which is naturally more sensitive because it does not have protection.
A cavity or dental crack : a damaged tooth can allow external stimuli to pass through to the nerve, causing severe pain.
Recent dental work : after scaling , whitening or the installation of a crown, it is normal to feel temporary sensitivity.
The use of certain products : whitening toothpastes or those with abrasive agents can increase sensitivity.
Symptoms of tooth sensitivity
It mainly manifests itself by:
A little sharp and temporary pain : when you come into contact with things like cold (iced drinks, fresh air), hot (soup, coffee) , acid (citrus fruits, vinegar) or sweet .
A tingling or uncomfortable sensation : less intense than real pain, but it can still be bothersome.
Hypersensitivity to touch : some people feel discomfort when passing their tongue or toothbrush over particularly sensitive areas.
If this sensitivity becomes persistent or worsens, it is best to consult a dentist to understand what is happening and avoid possible concerns.
How can toothpaste relieve tooth sensitivity?
Products specially formulated for sensitive teeth help relieve discomfort by calming nerve signals and increasing protection for your teeth. They act through several mechanisms that complement each other:
Obstruction of dentin tubules : Tin fluoride or calcium salts gently block the canals in dentin, preventing painful sensations.
Dental Nerve Desensitization : Ingredients like potassium nitrate and strontium chloride help reduce pain by soothing the nerves.
Strengthening enamel : Fluoride and hydroxyapatite work together for its repair and protection, protecting your teeth from acid attacks and temperature changes.
Anti-inflammatory effect : certain soothing ingredients help reduce inflammation of the gums, thus limiting tooth loosening often linked to sensitivity.
By regularly using a suitable toothpaste and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can gradually reduce sensitivity and enjoy improved comfort. 👌
Criteria for choosing a good toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Choosing a toothpaste for sensitive teeth is like choosing a cream for dry skin: choose gentle ingredients and avoid those that aggravate. Here are some tips for choosing wisely.
Which ingredients to favor?
Opt for a toothpaste that contains these ingredients:
Potassium nitrate : helps reduce sensitivity by calming the nerves.
Fluorine : strengthens enamel and protects dentin.
Hydroxyapatite : fills the dentin canals and restores the surface of the teeth.
Strontium chloride : creates a protective barrier against stimuli.
Tin fluoride : protects teeth and reduces gum inflammation.
Soothing agents : Allantoin, aloe vera, chamomile, arginine to calm irritated gums.
Toothpastes to avoid
Not all products are recommended if you have sensitive teeth. Some can even make the situation worse:
Whiteners that are too abrasive : While they promise a dazzling smile, many contain abrasive particles or peroxides that can wear away enamel and increase sensitivity.
With activated carbon : they are not always suitable! Charcoal can in fact be a little too aggressive and increase tooth wear.
Aggressive foaming agents : Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is often used to create abundant foam, and this can irritate mucous membranes and gums.
With too many acids : certain anti-tartar toothpastes or toothpastes enriched with citrus fruits, for example, can weaken the enamel and worsen your sensitivity.
Containing alcohol : they dry out the mouth and can cause irritation.
💡Tip : To know if a toothpaste is too abrasive, check its RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) index. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth should have an RDA of less than 70.
Types of toothpastes for sensitive teeth
There are plenty of toothpastes, at all prices, to soothe tooth sensitivity. Depending on what you are looking for, the choice is wide. Let's discover together the extent of the possibilities.
Desensitizing toothpastes
They are there to soothe tooth pain by blocking nerve signals or creating a small protective barrier over exposed dentin.
So how does it work? These toothpastes contain special ingredients like:
Potassium nitrate 🏆
Strontium chloride : It reduces sensitivity by blocking exposed nerve channels.
Arginine and calcium bicarbonate : they help create a natural protective layer on dentin to limit exposure to nerves.
Fluoride-based toothpastes
Fluoride is king for strong, healthy teeth. Toothpastes that have it are very interesting for strengthening enamel and protecting your teeth .
So here too, how does it work?
Sodium fluoride and sodium monofluorophosphate : with their long name, these ingredients strengthen the enamel and make it stronger against acid attacks.
Tin Fluoride
Hydroxyapatite
How to use toothpaste for maximum effectiveness?
Choosing a good toothpaste for sensitive teeth is good, but using it correctly is even better. To get the most out of it, here are the following tips.
Proper brushing technique
Brushing too vigorously can make your teeth more sensitive by wearing down the enamel and irritating the gums. Here are some tips for gentle brushing:
Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles : the soft bristles take care of your teeth without damaging the enamel or irritating the gums.
Opt for a gentle, circular movement : make small rotating movements by tilting your brush at 45° in relation to your gums.
Do not press too hard ⚠️: light pressure is enough to remove plaque, no more.
Do not rinse immediately : avoid rinsing with too much water after brushing to let the toothpaste work. Simply spit out the excess foam.
Use dental floss and a suitable mouthwash : supplement with an alcohol-free mouthwash and dental floss, or interdental brushes .
Recommended brushing frequency
Brushing your teeth regularly is the key to keeping your teeth healthy and avoiding sensitivity. The question of frequency comes up often, here are the usual recommendations:
We brush them 2 to 3 times , that's ideal: once in the morning and once in the evening. If you can after lunch, even better.
Brushing lasts 2 minutes ⏳. This is the minimum to properly clean all surfaces. 👉
We clean up after meals, but not right away! Wait 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing your teeth.
Choose the right toothpaste : opt for a toothpaste dedicated to sensitive teeth and avoid those that whiten too much and are abrasive.
Other solutions to relieve tooth sensitivity
Other tips exist to reduce it. Depending on your problem, choose professional treatments or home remedies.
Professional treatments
If your teeth are sensitive even if you take good care of them, do not hesitate to consult your dentist. There are plenty of professional treatments that can strengthen enamel and reduce dentin exposure. Here are some possible solutions:
Fluoride varnish : a little boost of concentrated fluoride to strengthen enamel and protect dentin.
Tubule sealing : products intended to block the micro-channels of dentin.
Laser treatment : it strengthens dentin and reduces sensitivity.
Gum graft : perfect for covering exposed roots if your gums are receding.
Filling or crown : ideal for protecting the tooth in the event of cracking, wear or decay.
And if sensitivity persists or worsens, make an appointment with your dentist without delay.
Home remedies for tooth sensitivity
If you're looking for natural tips to soothe your sensitive teeth, there are a few home remedies that can help.
🛁 For a simple mouthwash , rinse with lukewarm water with salt or baking soda. Dissolve half a teaspoon in a glass of water and rinse for 30 seconds.
🥛 For strong teeth, also think about dairy products ! Calcium is essential for strengthening enamel, so don't hesitate to consume milk, yogurt or cheese for good dental health.
🪵 Clove is a little miracle for sensitive teeth! Thanks to its anesthetic and antiseptic properties, you can use it in the form of essential oil (a few drops diluted in a little water) or rub it directly on the sensitive tooth for quick relief.
🍃 A little aloe vera gel on teeth and gums can work wonders to reduce inflammation and soothe pain, thanks to its healing and antibacterial properties.
🍵 Sugar-free green tea is a great option to protect your teeth. Rich in polyphenols, you can drink it or use it as a mouthwash to strengthen enamel.
🐝 Honey, with its antibacterial and healing properties, is also a precious ally. Mix some with warm water and rinse your mouth to soothe and heal the gums.
Answers to frequently asked questions about tooth sensitivity and toothpaste
What causes tooth sensitivity and how to fix it?
It can be caused by enamel wear, receding gums, cavities or recent care. To relieve it, use a suitable toothpaste, brush gently, avoid acidic foods and consult your dentist if the pain persists. According to an article from UFC-Que Choisir , a fluoride content between 1,000 and 1,500 ppm is effective in preventing cavities.
Can certain toothpastes make your teeth sensitive?
Indeed, some whitening toothpastes or those with abrasive agents (such as activated charcoal) can weaken enamel and increase sensitivity. Opt for a mild toothpaste enriched with fluoride to preserve your teeth.
Why do my teeth hurt when I use toothpaste?
The presence of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent, can cause irritation to teeth and gums. Opt for an SLS-free toothpaste and be sure to use a product specifically designed for sensitive teeth.
Does putting toothpaste on a sensitive tooth help?
Of course ! By locally applying certain toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth, it can be effective. Simply apply it to the painful tooth, leave to act, then rinse.
Conclusion: toothpaste for sensitive teeth, a daily ally
If you experience a little tooth sensitivity, don't panic! Choosing the right toothpaste can really make a difference. By taking care of your enamel, calming the nerves and strengthening your teeth, it helps you find real comfort in everyday life. With good brushing, impeccable oral hygiene and, if necessary, a quick trip to the dentist, you can say goodbye to pain! 😃✨
