Feeling a little sensitive lately? If you’ve been wincing while sipping a cold drink, you may have gum or tooth sensitivity. Luckily, relief may be as easy as changing your toothbrush.
Note: While this blog offers helpful info, it’s always a good idea to check with your dentist if you’re experiencing persistent discomfort.
What causes sensitive teeth and gums?
Tooth and gum sensitivity is never fun, but it’s not always a sign of something serious. There are a few common causes to look out for.
Enamel erosion
Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body! But when this thin, hard layer that protects the inner parts of your teeth erodes, it can really hurt.
Causes of enamel erosion:
- Acidic drinks - unfortunately all the good ones: coffee, soda, wine, juice, and sparkling water
- Teeth grinding - a sure sign of this is waking up with jaw pain
- Plaque buildup - time to schedule that overdue dental appointment
- Over brushing - using hard bristles or brushing aggressively can erode enamel
Gum recession
Receding gums can be painful because the nerves of your teeth become exposed when they should be tucked away!
Causes of gum recession:
- Poor oral hygiene - this can cause gum disease (gingivitis)
- Genetics - some people are just naturally predisposed
- Grinding or misalignment - can wear down gums
- Over brushing - going too hard with your toothbrush can damage gums
Sensitivity can also be caused by more obvious things like whitening strips or recent dental procedures.
Dentists recommend an extra-soft toothbrush.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Even if your teeth are perfectly healthy, a soft-bristled toothbrush is still dentist-recommended to protect your enamel and gums.
Using a toothbrush with hard bristles may feel like you’re getting a deeper clean, but it can actually be contributing to sensitivity. Overbrushing or using a hard brush can worsen enamel erosion and gum recession and cause gum damage, according to a meta-data study by the World Dental Federation.
The Boie extra-soft Toothrush is here!
Ready to make the switch? Our Toothbrush has the gold standard in extra-soft nylon bristles and is designed to be gentle on teeth and gums without compromising on clean. And, the handle is made from 100% recycled plastic. If you were a fan of the Boie Fine Toothbrush, you’ll love our new one!
- Extra-soft nylon bristles for a non-abrasive clean
- Gentle on tooth enamel and gum tissue
- Handle made from 100% recycled plastic
- Can be hung from a hook!
Shop the Boie USA Extra-Soft Toothbrush here