How to Relieve Sensitive Teeth

Whether you’ve toughed it out or made small changes, like chewing on one side of your mouth, you may have figured out how to deal with your sensitive teeth – but there are more effective ways.

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the softer inner layer of the tooth, called dentin, becomes exposed. The dentin layer contains tubules that lead to the nerve inside the teeth. This can occur if the enamel (the protective outer layer of your tooth) wears away or the gum recedes, allowing triggers like hot, cold or sweet substances to reach the nerves and cause a painful sensation.ⁱ

By taking steps to avoid damaging your enamel and gums, you can help to reduce tooth sensitivity. Or, if you already have sensitive teeth, there are a number of ways you can manage the discomfort when eating hot or cold foods.

Switching to a daily sensitivity toothpaste like Sensodyne is an easy way to reduce tooth sensitivity and enjoy the foods and drinks you love without thinking twice. Sensodyne toothpastes contain either potassium nitrate, which soothes the nerves and reduces pain signals, or stannous fluoride, which builds a protective layer over exposed dentin to block triggers from reaching the nerves. All Sensodyne toothpastes also contain fluoride to provide protection from tooth decay and strengthen teeth.ⁱⁱ

Learn what you can do to help prevent sensitive tooth pain from starting, or how to get relief if you already experience sensitivity, below.

Daily Care for Sensitive Teeth

Treating your sensitive teeth on a daily basis is very important as, once tooth enamel is worn away, it cannot repair itself. This leaves dentin exposed, which can lead to sensitivity.ⁱⁱⁱ

Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee immediate relief from tooth sensitivity pain. However, by taking the following steps, you can help to avoid additional damage to your enamel – and also get some pain relief for your sensitive teeth.