Best Toothbrush for Sensitive Teeth: What to Look For

If brushing makes your teeth twinge, the best toothbrush for sensitive teeth is one that cleans thoroughly without adding friction: soft bristles, a compact head, a gentle setting if it is electric, and a design that makes a light touch feel natural. Technique matters just as much as the brush.

Here is what to look for, how to brush sensitive teeth, and the common mistakes that make sensitivity worse.

Why sensitive teeth need a gentler brush

Sensitivity usually happens when the layer under the enamel, called dentine, is exposed. That can be from worn enamel or from gums that have pulled back from the teeth. Hot, cold, sweet or sour food and drink can then cause a sharp, short twinge.

Hard bristles and heavy scrubbing can add to that wear. A gentler brush, used with a lighter touch, cleans the teeth without making the problem worse. Because sensitivity has several possible causes, it is worth having your dentist check it, especially if it is new or getting worse.

What to look for in a toothbrush for sensitive teeth

• Soft bristles. Soft bristles clean plaque well while being kinder to enamel and gums. Avoid medium and hard.
• A compact head. A smaller head reaches the back teeth and gumline more easily and gives you better control.
• A gentle mode, if electric. A dedicated sensitive setting lowers the intensity on tender days.
• A head made for sensitive teeth. Many electric brushes offer a softer head option. Use it.
• A light, easy to hold body. A brush you can hold loosely keeps pressure down without you having to think about it.
• A two minute timer. Even pacing stops you going over one sensitive spot again and again.

Manual or electric for sensitive teeth?

Both can work, as long as the bristles are soft and the touch is light. A manual brush relies entirely on your technique. An electric brush does the movement for you, so you can simply guide it, which many people find makes a gentle clean easier.

If you are considering electric, a sonic brush with a sensitive mode is a good place to start. Our guide to the sonic toothbrush for sensitive teeth looks at that option in more depth, and our article on electric toothbrush modes explains how to choose the right setting.

How to brush sensitive teeth

1. Use a soft brush or a sensitive head, with a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
2. Angle the bristles slightly towards the gumline.
3. Hold the brush lightly. With an electric brush, guide it slowly and let it do the work.
4. Avoid hard back and forth scrubbing.
5. Brush for two minutes, giving each quarter of your mouth about 30 seconds.
6. Spit out the excess toothpaste rather than rinsing hard.

Mistakes that make sensitivity worse

• Using medium or hard bristles.
• Pressing hard to feel like you are cleaning better.
• Brushing straight after acidic food or drink, when enamel is softer.
• Keeping a head long after the bristles have splayed. Replace about every three months.
• Using very abrasive toothpaste without checking with your dentist.

Questions

Can the wrong toothbrush cause sensitivity?

Hard bristles and heavy pressure can contribute to enamel wear and gums pulling back, both of which can expose sensitive areas. Switching to a soft brush and a lighter touch helps avoid adding to the problem.

Is an electric toothbrush good for sensitive teeth?

It can be, if it has a gentle mode and you use a light touch. The brush does the movement, which makes it easier to avoid scrubbing. If brushing still hurts, see your dentist.

Should I use a sensitive toothpaste as well?

Many people find a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth helpful alongside a gentle brush. Ask your dentist which one suits you, especially if sensitivity is new.

When should I see a dentist about sensitive teeth?

If sensitivity is sudden, severe, lasts more than a short moment, or is limited to one tooth, book in with your dentist. It can be a sign of something that needs attention.

A gentle choice: PulseONE

PulseONE includes a Sensitive mode and comes with a Gentle Touch head for sensitive teeth, alongside the Precision Clean head for everyday cleaning. SmartSense pacing keeps your two minutes even, and the 71 g body is easy to hold lightly. See everything included on our what's in the box page.