Why is my toothpaste for sensitive teeth not working?

Sensitivity toothpaste may not be working because it needs more time, the active ingredient may not be right for you or the sensitivity may be caused by a dental problem the toothpaste cannot fix. 

What you will learn in this article: 

• Sensitivity toothpaste usually takes several applications before you notice less pain. 

• Sensitivity toothpastes can use different active ingredients. 

• Cavities, cracked teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, worn enamel and exposed roots can also cause sensitivity. 

• Sharp or lasting tooth pain is a reason to see your dental provider. 

If sensitivity toothpaste isn’t helping or your tooth pain is getting worse, schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider. They can find the cause of the sensitivity and recommend the right treatment. 

How does sensitivity toothpaste work? 

Your tooth has a hard outer layer called enamel. Under it is a softer layer called dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubes that can let hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods reach the nerves inside your tooth. 

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds that help block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. It usually takes several applications before sensitivity is reduced.¹ That means sensitivity toothpaste may need some time to work. It is not an instant pain reliever. 

Common reasons the toothpaste isn't helping 

Beyond needing more time to work, a few other factors can affect whether desensitizing toothpaste helps you. 

You haven't used it long enough 

If you've only started using it recently, give it more time — sensitivity relief builds gradually rather than happening overnight. 

You're not following the product directions 

Different products can have different instructions. Follow the label for how much to use and how often to use it. Don't change the directions in an effort to make it work faster. 

Your toothpaste may use a different active ingredient 

The ADA notes that twice-daily use of toothpastes containing stannous, potassium with or without stannous or arginine can reduce dentin hypersensitivity pain.² If one product has not helped, your dental provider can help you decide whether another option makes sense. 

You're brushing too hard 

Cleveland Clinic notes that brushing with too much pressure or using a hard toothbrush can wear down enamel and make your gums pull back.³ Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle pressure. 

The toothpaste addresses sensitivity, but not the cause 

Sensitivity toothpaste may help with the pain, but the reason your tooth is sensitive still matters. The ADA lists cavities, cracked teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, worn enamel and exposed tooth roots as possible causes.¹ Some of these problems need treatment beyond toothpaste. 

Signs the pain comes from something a toothpaste can't fix 

Tooth sensitivity does not always come from exposed dentin alone. Cavities, cracked teeth, gum disease and other dental problems can also cause pain. 

Cleveland Clinic notes that sharp sensitivity or pain that does not go away can be a sign of a more serious problem.³ See a dental provider if: 

• The pain is sharp or doesn't go away 

• A specific tooth is getting worse 

• You notice a crack or other damage 

• The pain is changing how you eat or drink 

If your sensitivity is sharp, persistent or focused on one tooth, talk with your dental provider instead of relying on toothpaste alone. They can check for cavities, cracks, gum recession or enamel wear and help you decide what to do next. 

Why is my toothpaste for sensitive teeth not working? FAQs 

Still have questions about sensitivity toothpaste? These answers cover a few common concerns. 

Can I use sensitivity toothpaste forever? 

Follow the directions on your toothpaste. If it is helping and you want to keep using it as your regular toothpaste, ask your dental provider if it is a good choice for your needs. If your sensitivity keeps getting worse, have it checked. 

Is it safe to use sensitivity toothpaste and regular toothpaste at the same time? 

It's better to pick one. Using a sensitivity toothpaste as your only toothpaste gives the active ingredients the most contact time with your teeth. Mixing in a regular toothpaste may reduce that effect, since it cuts down on the active ingredient's contact time with your teeth. 

Could my diet be making sensitivity worse? 

Yes. Acidic foods and drinks can wear down enamel and make sensitivity worse.³ Cutting back on foods and drinks such as citrus and soda may help protect your enamel. But diet changes will not fix problems such as a cavity or cracked tooth. 

Sources 

¹ American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: “Sensitive Teeth.” https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/sensitive-teeth 

² American Dental Association: “Toothpastes.” https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/toothpastes 

³ Cleveland Clinic: “Sensitive Teeth.” https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10954-teeth-sensitivity