Can Brushing and Flossing Cause Sensitive Teeth?
If you experience sensitivity while brushing, flossing, or after a visit to the dentist, have you ever wondered: Can these oral care habits be the cause of sensitive teeth? Or, are they merely triggers?
To help set the record straight, here’s a look at the role brushing, flossing, and deep cleaning may play in tooth sensitivity, along with a few good oral care tips to help minimize the pain.
Myth vs Truth
Brushing Sensitive Teeth
MYTH:
Brushing causes sensitive teeth
TRUTH:
Aggressive brushing can trigger sensitivity
How to brush sensitive teeth
Using the right technique is important. Brush with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush for 2 minutes, twice a day. Place your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and move back and forth in short strokes. Don’t brush too hard or too frequently—you can cause gum recession and experience sensitivity.
Use Sensodyne toothpaste when you brush, which is formulated to treat sensitive teeth.
Flossing Sensitive Teeth
MYTH:
Flossing causes sensitive teeth
TRUTH:
Aggressive flossing can trigger sensitivity pain
How to floss sensitive teeth
The key to flossing sensitive teeth is to be gentle. Insert the floss between each tooth and curve it into a “C” shape, gently rubbing it up and down against the sides of your teeth. Remember to floss once a day to help remove plaque and keep your teeth and gums healthy, reducing the risk of sensitivity.
Visiting the dentist with sensitive teeth
MYTH:
Deep cleanings at the dentist cause sensitive teeth
TRUTH:
You can experience temporary sensitivity after a deep cleaning
How to prepare for a dentist-office deep cleaning
It’s important to visit the dentist every 6 months so you can keep your mouth healthy and eliminate tartar buildup. Use Sensodyne toothpaste for 2 weeks before your appointment to help prep your sensitive teeth and relieve any pain.*
