Myth vs Truth: Does Brushing Cause Sensitive Teeth?

If you experience sensitivity while brushing, or after a visit to the dentist, have you ever wondered: Could these be a cause of my sensitive teeth?

To help set the record straight, here’s a look at the impact that brushing and cleaning may play, along with a few good oral care tips.

Myths vs Truth

Brushing Sensitive Teeth

MYTH:

Brushing causes sensitive teeth

TRUTH:

Aggressive brushing can trigger sensitivity

How to brush sensitive teeth

Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush for 2 minutes, twice a day.

Use Sensodyne toothpaste when you brush, which is formulated to help care for sensitive teeth.

Young woman brushing her teeth with Sensodyne toothpaste for sensitive teeth

Visiting the dentist with sensitive teeth

Icon of dentist's chair

MYTH:

Deep cleanings at the dentist causes tooth sensitivity

TRUTH:

If you experience any sensitive teeth or have any concerns, please ask your dentist

Sensodyne Rapid Relief can relieve sensitivity* in as little as 3 days, while other Sensodyne toothpastes may take up to 2 weeks.* It’s important to continue brushing with Sensodyne toothpaste twice a day, every day, for lasting tooth sensitivity relief. However, if pain/sensitivity still persists after 4 weeks of use, visit your dentist as your sensitive teeth may indicate a more serious problem. To maintain sensitivity relief, continue to use Sensodyne twice a day as your daily toothpaste.

*With twice daily brushing

Sensodyne Gentle Whitening and Sensodyne Rapid Relief toothpaste products