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Sensitive Gums Driving Me Nuts—Saltwater Rinse or OTC Gel?

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Posts: 18
(@susan_echo)
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Yeah, those sensitive toothpastes really do help—I had a similar experience. OTC gels are decent for quick relief, but honestly, long-term, toothpaste change was the game-changer. Flossing gently also made a noticeable difference for me after a few weeks. Worth trying out...

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Posts: 8
(@susanriver77)
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Sensitive toothpaste definitely helps, but I've found that saltwater rinses can be surprisingly effective too. Had a patient once who swore by OTC gels, but personally, they never did much for me long-term. Switching to a softer toothbrush and easing up on brushing pressure made a bigger difference in my case. Might be worth considering if you're still struggling...

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aviation_maggie
Posts: 15
(@aviation_maggie)
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Switching to a softer toothbrush and easing up on brushing pressure made a bigger difference in my case. Might be worth considering if you're still struggling...

Totally agree about the softer toothbrush—made a huge difference for me too. Saltwater rinses are great, but honestly, OTC gels were hit or miss. I guess everyone's gums have their own personality, huh? Hope you find relief soon... sensitive gums are no joke.

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Posts: 23
(@books_gandalf)
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Hope you find relief soon... sensitive gums are no joke.

Totally with you guys on the softer toothbrush thing—it's usually my first suggestion when patients mention sensitive gums. Saltwater rinses can help calm things down temporarily, but they're not a long-term fix. OTC gels... yeah, they're kinda hit-or-miss depending on what's causing your sensitivity. Usually, consistent gentle brushing technique and flossing (I know, I know... everyone hates flossing) does the trick better than gels alone. If nothing improves after a couple weeks though, might be worth a quick check-in with your dentist to rule out anything else going on.

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Posts: 23
(@astronomy_patricia)
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I've been dealing with sensitive gums ever since starting orthodontic treatment, and honestly, nothing seems to fully fix it. Tried saltwater rinses—they help a bit but the relief doesn't last long. OTC gels felt kinda pointless for me, personally.

"Usually, consistent gentle brushing technique and flossing (I know, I know... everyone hates flossing) does the trick better than gels alone."

Yeah, flossing is rough with braces though... Has anyone found a flossing method that's easier on sensitive gums with brackets? I'm kinda desperate here.

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