Dentists Told Me All The Products I Should Be Using For My Very Sensitive Teeth

With this list of toothpastes, mouthwashes and more, you may finally be able to eat that ice cream.

A few years ago, I started to notice that biting into hot foods sent a chill down my spine, and even drinking ice-cold beverages was almost unbearable — all due to what I could only imagine was the result of sensitive teeth. I had every intention of writing off my tooth sensitivity as just normal wear and tear, but after corresponding with Dr. Michael Wei, DDS, a New York City-based cosmetic dentist and practice owner, it’s actually something crucial to be addressed.

“Tooth sensitivity can indicate underlying dental issues such as cavities, gum recession, enamel erosion, or other oral health problems,” Wei said. “If left untreated, these issues can lead to more serious dental problems, including tooth decay, infection, and even tooth loss.”

It’s also a common issue, according to Wei, that happens when dentin, the inner layer of the tooth, is exposed. Dentin is normally protected by enamel or cementum, a layer under the gum line that protects the tooth root and can be exposed by gum recession.

Wei, along with other dental health experts that we consulted, said that maintaining a good oral hygiene routine — one that involves brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with an interdental cleaner daily — is key to good oral health. And to find the specific products that they suggest especially for sensitive teeth, read ahead.

The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.