TL;DR Sensodyne, especially with Novamin or Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate, is highly recommended. Alternatives like Boka with hydroxyapatite are also popular.
Popular Recommendations
Sensodyne is frequently mentioned as a top choice for sensitive teeth across multiple discussions. Many users have found it effective in reducing sensitivity, particularly those formulas containing Novamin or Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate, which can help create artificial enamel on teeth [1:5],
[3:6]. Sensodyne Rapid Relief is also noted for its effectiveness and availability during sales
[3:8].
Alternative Options
Boka toothpaste, which uses hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride, has been praised for its effectiveness in reducing sensitivity and improving overall dental health [3:1]. Hydroxyapatite helps repair enamel and block pathways to nerves, offering relief from sensitivity
[5:4]. Users have reported significant improvements in sensitivity and cavity prevention when using hydroxyapatite-based toothpastes
[3:9].
Considerations for Flavor and Ingredients
For individuals sensitive to mint flavors, Dr. Bob's unflavored toothpaste was suggested, although it may not contain potassium nitrate [5:2]. Some users avoid stannous fluoride due to irritation and prefer alternatives that are less harsh
[5]. It's important to check ingredients if you have specific sensitivities or preferences.
Additional Tips
Some users recommend using children's toothpaste or toothbrushes designed for softer cleaning as a temporary solution for sensitivity [2:1]. Additionally, brushing without rinsing immediately after can enhance the effect of sensitivity-reducing toothpastes
[3:9]. For those dealing with sensitivity due to grinding, using a night guard alongside sensitivity toothpaste can improve quality of life
[3:8].
I've got annoyingly sensitive teeth lately. I don't have a high sugar diet, only drink water or SF squash, and I don't smoke or vape, but I find that my teeth are hurting. I have been to the dentist who said to use sensitive toothpaste. So, what's the best one that you've used? And should I also get sensitive mouthwash?
I've tried them all, and I like Colgate the best.
I tried the colgate one, and bizarrely it caused eczema on the corners of my mouth. So my teeth and face hurt! I can't win. Lol.
How weird! Well you have plenty of other reccs at least!
Anything by Sensodyne.
Use sensodyne, but check the ingredients and get one that has Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate or Novamin in it. Its a substance that turns into artificial enamel on the outside of your teeth, the only thing I've found that worked on my sensitive teeth. Its not an overnight fix, but a couple of months of using it really improved my situation.
Are you grinding your teeth at night?
The dentist didn't see any evidence of it.
Anything with stannous flouride, I like Oral-B Pro Expert.
Source: teeth hurt when ice cream now teeth not hurt
I have sensitive teeth and was wondering if anyone has used a toothpaste that actually helped with the sensitivity and not just some marketing bs. Thnx
Sensodyne
The real act of burshing your teeth is achieved with the toothbrush not the paste so unless you're looking for something specific like anti cavitation effects try dry brushing or baking soda
KIN
I suffer from the same issue so as a solution I'm using toothpastes and tooth brushes that are made for babies or kids and it's so far a great solution : more soft and clean well.. hope this helps...
I am wondering this because I definitely want to be frugal, but I'm also worrying about expensive dentist visits which outweigh the cost of expensive toothpastes as well.
I have found Sensodyne to be the best. The cost is higher, but I found it to be worth it because I tried Colgate Sensitive and still had sensitivity, so the Sensodyne did work better for me.
Also, when looking for Sensodyne on sale, I found people talking about how you should use Sensodyne with Novamin. In the US, these are way more expensive. I would love to use it, but wonder if it's worth it or if people have ways of getting it cheaper.
Wondering what the people use here. I am not sure if I should be less frugal on toothpastes if it will save money on the dentist in the long run...
It's not marketed as for sensitive teeth, but I switched to Boka and I'm never going back to regular fluoride. It's hydroxyapatite instead. I find it works better, even more so than the professional flouride treatment paste I have. Mileage may vary but I'm team hydroxyapatite. Boka runs ~$15 a tube but it lasts 3mo
I was never a fan of the feel of fluoride mouthwashes because they burn my tongue and gums so I use the cetylpyridinium chloride. But the fluoride would probably help the sensitivity more.
I have heard that hydroxyappatite is the best for teeth. Now I want to try it, as I continue to get cavities from time to time.
Does it really work as well for sensitivity?
I got tons and tons of cavities all my life no matter what I did. I even switched my diet which helped, but not all the way. But now my teeth feel better than they ever did with regular toothpaste. So for me, yes, it's helped the sensitivity and cavities.
It's fairly low cost (compared to other dental interventions) so I'd give it a shot. I would look for a cheaper brand but tbh I like that they make a flavor that tastes like an orange dreamsicle.
Yes! Hydroxyapatite is amazing for whitening and sensitivity!
I personally use apagard.
It's so powerful that if you put a dab on your finger and rub it on the sensitive area it won't be sensitive in half an hour.
For best results, brush, don't rinse - just spit, then don't eat or drink for 30m after.
Due to this effect I usually use my hydro toothpaste at night and a standard fluoride in the morning. But I have an enamel issue so I need double the protection.
oh I'm so glad someone commented this! I switched to Boka and their sonic brush at the beginning of the pandemic and I love all of their products.
they just came out with a cinnamon flavor I want to try. The coconut mango toothpaste is lovely and my mouth always feels clean and I have very little sensitivity if any anymore.
edit: oh dear, I meant coconut ginger! my apologies!
Sensodine. I really wonder why that question in this sub. Tooth paste lasts a long time and even when expensive it comes down to less than $1 a month. So even spending half ain't a big win.
Maybe I'm over thinking it. But you can get sensodyne for $4 or so and the 70g with novamin that people rave about is like $7+ for a 70gram tube.
I see Sensodyne go on sale pretty often. It’s pretty easy to stock up till the next sale hits. This is one I personally wouldn’t compromise on. Toothpaste isn’t cheap but it’s a steal compared to dental work!
Yeah I see the double pack of Pronamel on sale pretty often, and it’s the only one I buy. Had a dentist prescribe me toothpaste and he told me if insurance didn’t cover it to use Sensodyne instead. They didn’t cover it so I’ve just been using that since. Tried to cheap out this last time with some Colgate and I can absolutely tell a difference
I second this. I stock up on Sensodyne Rapid Relief whenever it goes on sale. If you have a BJ’s around you and have the membership, you can buy it in bulk to save long term.
Though I should add that I honestly don’t think Sensodyne prevents me from needing to go to the dentist. My teeth are sensitive from grinding and that’s irreversible. My night guard prevents farther damage while Sensodyne just treats the symptoms I already have. The reason I’m willing to pay more for Sensodyne is simply because it improves me quality of life in a way that cheaper alternatives haven’t been able to.
I’ve always used sensodyne. Target usually has a deal every so often where you get a $5 gift card if you buy 3 so that cuts the cost down to about $3.33 each.
Walmart’s equate brand has their version of sensodyne and I’ve been using it for almost 2 years and it works and my dentist is fine with it.
I have receding gums, so my teeth are super super sensitive. I’ve tried Crest white strips and they are so incredibly uncomfortable. Does anyone have recommendations for something I can use that won’t feel like my skeleton is trying to escape my body?
I totally understand the struggle with sensitive teeth and receding gums; it can make whitening products feel unbearable. In my experience, Clear Club Whitening Gel has been a lifesaver since it comes with a custom-fitted tray that ensures a comfortable fit. I use the 10% strength gel, which is gentle yet effective, and it doesn’t cause the discomfort I experienced with other products. If you’re looking for a more comfortable whitening option, I highly recommend giving this a try!
Do not use teeth whiteners. They will wreck havoc on you. A bit of yellowing is normal.
To help with sensitivity, get yourself a soft bristle brush and Sensodyne toothpaste. Works wonders over time.
Heard good things about Luminex
Purple toothpaste has been suggested but reviews are mixed with most saying it doesn’t work
I have used crest emulsions and it did make a few of my teeth sensitive for a day or two (i heard normal whitening makes sensitive for much longer so maybe that’s progress) so try at ur own risk
Also heard about remineralizing teeth right after whitening (buy off Amazon syringes with mineralization materials in it).
Ask your dentist!
Dental hygienist here! So I’m sorry to say but severe sensitivity and whitening just don’t mix. You could attempt a sensitive toothpaste that also has whitening, like Colgate, but the whitening active ingredient is in very low doses and you may not get the results you want. There are also whitening strips for sensitive teeth, but again, you’re likely not to see results you want.
I had a patient a while back who took a very interesting whitening approach that seemed to work since he had super white teeth that you could try, but again with sensitivity, you might still have some problems. But he would dry his teeth by sucking air through his teeth and put some whitening toothpaste on and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off. He’s the only patient I’ve ever had try that, but he had super white teeth!
Regarding your recession and sensitivity, make sure you’re using a sensitive toothpaste! And don’t be afraid to change brands until you find one that works. When trying a new kind, give it 2-4 weeks of consistent use before deciding if it’s effective or not.
Feel free to ask if you have any other questions!
I had been using Sensodyne Pronamel, which was good at dulling my super sensitive teeth, but using it is like getting a cannon blast of mint. Unpleasant to the point where it's now irritating my mouth.
I switched to Biotene. The flavor of that is extremely mild. It doesn't bother me. But it doesn't have potassium nitrate, so I'm extremely sensitive to temperatures again.
I can't do stannous fluoride. It seriously irritates my mouth. Toothpastes with this actually feel warm when they're in my mouth because they irritate me so much.
The kids flavors of Sensodyne Pronamel do not have potassium nitrate.
I've looked at recommendations in similar threads—RiseWell, Dr. Bob, ColSys, David's, Boka, etc.—but can't seem to find an option that satisfies my three requirements.
Can anyone help? I live in the US.
I use Dr. Bobs unflavored toothpaste and it has made it so much easier to brush my teeth! It just tastes sweet and you can get it on Amazon. A little pricier than normal toothpaste but definitely worth it. Unfortunately I don’t think it has potassium nitrate.
Boka toothpaste!!
Can you tell me which Boka toothpaste "Contains potassium nitrate or another active ingredient to combat tooth sensitivity"? I don't see one.
You are very thorough and this is very good, but I think you might have missed a little detail for an option that fits all 3 requirements.
In the case of potassium nitrate to combat tooth sensitivity, nano hydroxyapatite helps to repair the enamel and block passageways to the nerves that cause tooth sensitivity. So, you can definitely find a fitting option in Davids
Thanks for this info!
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I brush 3 times a day and floss (both water and string) twice a day, so I’m assuming that’s the cause of my front teeth becoming sensitive. Has anyone else experienced this and can recommend any good toothpaste?
I’ve just ordered this one from Amazon because I do like a whitening effect, but if there’s others people can recommend that’ll reduce the sensitivity I would greatly appreciate it!
Sensodyne is so good! Really helped with my sensitivity.
Sensodyne pronamel is the best for me personally.
Are you waiting at least 30 mins after you eat before you brush? That can deteriorate your enamel causing sensitivity
This is actually just a blanket statement and there are more nuances about the 30 mins rule. The 30 mins is to assume that your saliva alone would be able to neutralize the acidity of your mouth and teeth before brushing. However, if you swish with water for at least 30 seconds to a minute, the water should be able to neutralize the acidity so you can do the brushing without having to wait 30 mins after meal. And even if you wait 30 mins before brushing, depends on the individual and the specific food/drink you have, there's no guaranteed that the pH would come down to the optimal level for brushing. Since toothpaste contains flouride, usually the residue on your teeth can also help to remineralize the enamel. You don't gotta believe me though, just look at the clinical studies on this topic to educate yourself.
Honestly I’m not, I can definitely make this change though
Make that slight change and see what happens. Wouldn’t hurt to try. I had that same issue. I cut it down to only x2 a day and used foam cleaner after I eat. I just rinse my mouth and floss. I had a dental checkup and my teeth looked fantastic. No cavities, looks white, looking on track. And I have two trays left to go. Every case is unique. But try cutting down on brushing and wait after meals. Brush your teeth with a soft gentle brush. No more than two minutes.
Exactly. Straightening your teeth is pointless if you’re going to destroy the enamel
I first started using the repair and protect version, and now I use the one you’ve put up. I preferred the repair and protect one for when I was changing trays because my teeth were so sensitive and now I just use the whitening one because it’s cheaper but it also works lol
Sensitivity can happen for all sorts of reasons so if the paste doesn't help in a couple weeks speak to your provider about it.
Tip: Don't use any type of "whitening" while your teeth are sensitive if at all. Whitening formulas are usually more abrasive and drying in every brand. Its just the nature of the whitening that way.
Daily 2-3x:
Deep clean sensodyne + crest densify (two different types of fluoride) are my two current favorites.
Occasionally:
Sensodyne whitening (1x a week or so)
Sensodyne has a rapid relief formula too but I have not had to try it.
The ingredients explained with lists to help pick the right one:
https://www.sensodyne.com/en-us/about-sensodyne/ingredients/
What toothbrush do you use?
Are you drinking anything but water with your aligners in?
Oh really!! I didn’t know whitening toothpastes do that, I’ll get another one in the meantime.
I use a toothbrush with ultra soft bristles for my teeth, and I’m quite strict with my Invisalign so it’s just water. I always take them out to drink anything else
I use the pronamel version of this
I use it. It's really good.
I have mild gum recession in places that make it uncomfortable to eat or drink cold things (I had to change how I drink to avoid the tooth that gives the most problems).
Dentists say it’s so mild there’s nothing they can do (I’m not even in the ballpark for a gum graft, even if I wanted one).
Problem is, my teeth are really sensitive. Way more than most people, so it seems. The doctor has recommended Sensodyne in the past, which halves the pain, but it still really really hurts when something cold hits my tooth.
I’ve tried different Sensodyne products in hopes of finding a stronger one, but nothing changes. I should have asked the doctor, but honestly my brain fuzzed up when they told me they couldn’t do anything, and I forgot to ask all my questions. Is there an “Extreme Protection” version or something out there I don’t know about? Are other sensitivity protection toothpaste brands better? I’m really discouraged. I don’t want to live the rest of my life in pain…
I would ask them to prescribe you prevident toothpaste
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A backup of the post title and text have been made here:
Title: What is the STRONGEST over-the-counter toothpaste for sensitive teeth?
Full text: I have mild gum recession in places that make it uncomfortable to eat or drink cold things (I had to change how I drink to avoid the tooth that gives the most problems).
Dentists say it’s so mild there’s nothing they can do (I’m not even in the ballpark for a gum graft, even if I wanted one).
Problem is, my teeth are really sensitive. Way more than most people, so it seems. The doctor has recommended Sensodyne in the past, which halves the pain, but it still really really hurts when something cold hits my tooth.
I’ve tried different Sensodyne products in hopes of finding a stronger one, but nothing changes. I should have asked the doctor, but honestly my brain fuzzed up when they told me they couldn’t do anything, and I forgot to ask all my questions. Is there an “Extreme Protection” version or something out there I don’t know about? Are other sensitivity protection toothpaste brands better? I’m really discouraged. I don’t want to live the rest of my life in pain…
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There are three Colgate tooth pastes i usually buy when they are on sale. These are:
Colgate Sensitive - Multi Protection
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Water, Sorbitol, Arginine, Bicarbonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Monofluorophosphate, Flavour, Carmellose Sodium, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Titanium Dioxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Saccharin, Xanthan Gum.
Active Ingredients: Arginine 8% w/w, Sodium Monofluorophosphate 1.1% w/w.
Contains: This product contains Arginine 8% w/w and Sodium Monofluorophosphate 1.1% w/w (equivalent to 1450 ppm F).
Colgate Sensitive -Repair and Prevent
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Water, Sorbitol, Arginine, Flavour, Polaxamer, Sodium Monofluorophosphate, Zinc Oxide, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Benzyl Alcohol, Carmellose Sodium, Zinc Citrate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Xanthan Gum, Saccharin Sodium, Sucralose, Titanium Dioxide.
Contains: This product contains Arginine 8% w/w and Sodium Monofluorophosphate 1.1% w/w (equivalent to 1450ppmF).
Colgate Sensitive - Enamel Repair
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Water, Sorbitol, Arginine, Bicarbonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Monofluorophosphate, Flavour, Carmellose Sodium, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Titanium Dioxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Saccharin, Xanthan Gum.
Active Ingredients: Arginine 8% w/w, Sodium Monofluorophosphate 1.1% w/w.
Contains: This product contains Arginine 8% w/w and Sodium Monofluorophosphate 1.1% w/w (equivalent to 1450 ppm F)
Is there any actual difference between these products? And what toothpaste ingredient should i seek for in a toothpaste for sensitive teeth?
Is it safe to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth, like Sensodyne, long term? Even if you don't have sensitive teeth?
Yes, it's safe. No harm in using it long term.
The big key to ANY of these toothpastes is to not rinse for 30 minutes after you use it. Brush your teeth, swish it around in your mouth then spit out the extra and don’t rinse with water. The ingredients need to “sit” on the teeth for at least 30 minutes in order to be effective. I tell my patients to use this type of toothpaste at night and just go to bed afterwards. Also, don’t expect to start to see any results for at least 7-10 days once you start using it
whenever i do this i get an uncomfortable "film" around my teeth. when i slide my tongue across my teeth i can feel uneven areas -- some are smooth and some have bumps which i assume is residue from the toothpaste. is this to be expected and should i just deal with it? i use the sensodyne with novamin btw
Thanks really helpful!
Pick one with arginine, and get another toothpaste with potassium nitrate. They both work for sensitivity in different ways and complement each other. They can't put them together into one paste because, well, reasons that don't matter much to you as a consumer.
Hi there can you recommend two toothpastes with these two actives please
arginine is almost exclusive to colgate like the ones above. you can find potassium nitrate in nearly every brand of paste on the market that says sensitivity, it'll be in the active ingredients.
All the colgate sensitive ones seem to have arginine, and sensodyne pronamel has Potassium Nitrate.
Is the reasons because of marketing?
Which one in your opinion would you prefer, arginine or potassium nitrate?
Nah it's not marketing, it's more to do with active ingredients and the FDA. There are certain things they just can't do without an incredibly complex and expensive process. The many clones of the same paste like above is 99.9% marketing though.
The only difference I see is that the middle one has no Sodium Lauril Sulphate, but Polaxamer as a surfactant instead. It also has a lower concentration of Sodium Bicarbonate.
While SLS has been demonised quite a bit (for better or worse), it can cause issues for people with bullous diseases or issues with sensitive soft tissues. This however doesn't really affect the tooth sensitivity issue.
This second might be better for those that have issues with recurring mouth ulcers triggered by SLS sensitivity.
Hello,
Can anyone help me find sensory friendly toothpaste (I live in the USA.) I CANNOT stand the overwhelming feeling and taste of mint/peppermint that almost all toothpastes are flavored. I always dreaded brushing my teeth but chalked it up to depression. I finally realized its the damn mint.
I deal with sensitive teeth and switched to Boka Fluoride Free Toothpaste Nano Hydroxyapatite Orange Cream Flavor. First off - HUUUUUUGE improvement sensory wise. Brushing my teeth is super easy now! I love the flavor! But a week after use my teeth really hurt...
I recently got laid off and lost my dental insurance so I can't get in to see a dentist right now to make sure everything is okay. I've been trying to find non mint flavored toothpastes that might help with my sensitivity problem with no luck and I feel so defeated.
Please someone help... ;_;
maybe hismile toothpaste? i’ve seen reviews by autistic people who also cannot stand minty flavours. however i live in the uk and in my opinion it’s quite expensive for toothpaste !
We use NOBS Jr. Kids Toothpaste since my daughter isn’t a fan of minty flavors. She really enjoys the bubblegum berry taste and I’ve tried it too, I actually like it!
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i used hismile and i feel very similarly. their toothpastes are really good. i like the cotton candy, grape, and pink lemonade ones. their mint one is pretty good too because it’s not a spicy overwhelming mint at all.
best toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Key Considerations for Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth:
Active Ingredients: Look for toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help reduce sensitivity by blocking nerve signals in the teeth.
Fluoride Content: Ensure the toothpaste contains fluoride to help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities, which is especially important for sensitive teeth.
Gentle Formulation: Choose a toothpaste that is free from harsh abrasives and strong whitening agents, as these can exacerbate sensitivity.
Taste and Texture: Consider your personal preference for flavor and texture, as this can affect your willingness to use the product consistently.
ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for toothpaste that has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, indicating it has been tested for safety and effectiveness.
Recommendations:
Choosing any of these options can help manage sensitivity while maintaining overall oral health.
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