If your teeth hurt after flossing, you might be wondering why that happens. Is it possible that caring for your teeth is actually causing more pain? Flossing and brushing go hand in hand when it comes to dental care. This step of oral hygiene helps keep the area between your teeth clean and free of bacteria, plaque, and food particles. But what if you start experiencing tooth pain after flossing?
In this blog, we’ll explain why your teeth are aching after you floss them. Make sure to get a check-up with your dental specialist to get the diagnosis and adequate treatment.
Why Do My Teeth Hurt After Flossing?
Some reasons your teeth might hurt after flossing include the following:
1. You are Still New to Flossing
Many people start flossing late. Your gums, teeth and you need time to get used to the feeling of dental floss. Just like brushing, there is a proper technique required to floss correctly. Therefore, you might need some time to get used to getting the grip of your flossing thread. Take your time and ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss.
2. You Have Sensitive Teeth
Another reason your teeth hurt after flossing is sensitivity. A number of reasons could result in teeth sensitivity, and specific things can trigger it. Hence, your teeth might start aching when they come in contact with a trigger – like something sweet. You might also experience tooth sensitivity to cold and hot food items. Flossing can hurt if you have sensitive teeth.
3. You Have Tooth Decay
All the brushing, cleaning, dental appointments, and flossing are meant to prevent tooth decay, among other things. Bacteria is likely to collect in between your teeth and on your gum lines, causing damage. This is when flossing comes to the rescue since these are the areas where you use dental floss. If there’s decay where you’re flossing, it will most probably hurt.
Simply put, your teeth might hurt if you floss in an area where decay is present. You should immediately visit your dentist if you notice symptoms of tooth decay. The treatment will depend on the damage. If minor, you might need a dental filling. However, other procedures are required for severe damage.
4. You are Suffering from Periodontal Disease
Gum disease can occur when a lack of oral hygiene allows bacteria and plaque to survive in your mouth. If this is the case, you might notice bleeding gums when flossing as well, among other signs. Your gums will hurt when flossing. Still, you can visit your oral health care provider for treatments if you have gum disease.
5. Your Dental Restorations Are Loose
When crowns, fillings, or other restorations in your teeth become loose, it might expose many nerves. Thus, your teeth might hurt after flossing if you have loose dental restorations. Even flossing cracked filling can lead to pain. If you suspect this to be the cause, visit your dentist right away.
6. You Wear Braces or Retainers
Pain after flossing might occur if you recently had an adjustment to your braces. When you get work done on your braces, it’s natural for your teeth to hurt after flossing. However, you might be flossing wrong if you wear permanent retainers and experience pain. If so, practice the right technique and floss with no resulting pain.
What’s Next?
If your teeth hurt after flossing, there are multiple reasons why. Your dentist can help you determine the cause. Our Mission Bend Family Dentistry team can help you get rid of your dental issues. Say adios to your tooth troubles by visiting us at 7039 FM 1464, Suite 130, Richmond, Texas 77407. You can also book an appointment by calling us at (832) 895-5110.