Hard Toothbrushes and Sensitive Teeth

Hard Toothbrushes and Hard Brushing

These patients tend to be very vigorous in cleaning, believing they are doing the best they can. Hard brushing, especially with harder brushes, and abrasive tooth pastes and brushing for extended periods will clean teeth but can also damage the teeth and gums. In essence the hard brushing polishes away the surface of tooth and cuts way the gum. In extreme cases the tooth can be almost cut right through to its other side.Some 10-20% of patients have signs of this. Most commonly the front surface where tooth joins gum is damaged.

Soft Toothbrushes, Gentle Brushing

To minimise a safe brushing technique should be used. A quality soft or extra soft brush is a good start. At Port Kennedy Dental, I recommend the Sensodyne and Curaprox range of extra soft tooth brushes for these patients. The tooth paste I personally use is Sensodyne Complete Care or Daily Care, being low abrasive and containing ingredients to reduce sensitivity. This must be combined with a correct brushing technique. Aggressive horizontal scrubbing with the brush jumping from tooth to tooth is to be avoided. The bristles are best directed into the join of gum and tooth. Move the toothbrush in small circular or vibratory motions with light pressure. If you press too hard the bristles will fray after a short period of time. About 2 minutes of time is all the time required

Sensitive toothpaste

If teeth become sensitive then medicated toothpastes are required. These usually have Potassium Nitrate, Novamin or Arginine as active ingredients. A tooth paste such as Sensodyne (complete care, daily care, repair and protect) or Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief can help control sensitivity.Other causes of sensitive teeth exist and may need different treatment.

If Symptoms Persist

If symptoms persist you should make a dental consultation to determine the cause of your sensitivity. Not all sensitive teeth are caused by tooth brushing and different treatments may be required.