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The Best Toothbrushes for Sensitivity to Gums

Having sensitive teeth can lead to a downward spiral in oral health as the sensitivity makes brushing teeth uncomfortable. Not brushing, or avoiding the sensitive areas, can make the sensitivity worse as the cause of the problem will remain untreated. Plaque, a thin and sticky bacterial substance that clings to teeth, is the number one enemy that can lead to sensitivity in teeth and gums. Choosing the right toothbrush helps to clean away plaque.

  1. Electric Toothbrushes

    • Electric toothbrushes can be helpful in the treatment of sensitive teeth where the sensitivity is caused by overbrushing, or brushing too harshly. Electric toothbrushes have oscillating heads that rotate in two directions in rapid alternate bursts, making them effective in the gentle removal of plaque. They also often have dual speeds.

      Many toothbrushes have pressure sensors that warn when too much pressure is being applied. This can help if the sensitivity is caused by gum recession due to brushing too harshly. All brushes should be changed regularly, and many electric toothbrushes have bristles that change color when they are past their best condition and should be replaced.

    Manual Toothbrushes

    • Choice of toothbrush plays a part in both avoiding and treating sensitive teeth. Soft-bristled brushes are recommended by dentists for people who suffer from tooth sensitivity. The brush should have a small enough head to reach into all the awkward areas of the mouth, particularly the back teeth which can be hard to reach. Choose toothbrushes with round-ended filaments that are multi-tufted. Small headed toothbrushes also help people with irregularly placed teeth to reach difficult areas. When using a manual toothbrush, move the brush in small circular motions on all the surfaces of the teeth, not forgetting the biting surfaces, rather than scrubbing backward and forward. Back and forth scrubbing can damage gums and worsen sensitivity.

    Other Aids

    • Plaque, which is a major cause of gum recession and disease that leads to sensitive teeth, can be stained or dyed with the use of disclosing tablets. Used just before brushing, the dye will color the plaque in the mouth and highlight which areas need most attention. The dye is harmless and will be disappear when the plaque is brushed away. This is particularly useful around the gum line, as this is the area where plaque is most likely to build up.

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