Ow! Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Brush/Floss?

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When a daily habit turns into a chore because of pain or discomfort, it’s time to talk to a doctor. The same goes for when brushing or flossing your teeth starts to become bothersome. Teeth shouldn’t typically hurt while brushing, so if you’re experience this irritation there could be a few reasons why.

Brushing Too Hard

If you think brushing harder means you’re getting your teeth cleaner, you’re mistaken. It’s about brushing thoroughly and long enough, not necessarily hard enough. If you’re pushing too hard on your teeth with your brush, you could be breaking enamel or abrading your gums causing further diseases and damage. Try letting up a little on the pressure and see if the tooth pain stops.

Using The Wrong Brush

Hard, coarse brushes aren’t for everyone- especially those with sensitive mouths. If you have a tendency to brush too hard, a soft toothbrush specially made for sensitive teeth is a good option. Your toothbrush can also be a breeding ground for germs that’ll do more harm than good once they’re in your mouth. Be sure to replace your toothbrush about every 3 months, and always rinse it with hot water after brushing.

You Might Have A Cavity

If you tooth pain seems local to one specific area, you may have a cavity. These tiny holes in your teeth can be painful depending on how long they go untreated, and brushing or flossing can make the pain worse, especially if you’ve been packing on the acidic foods and drinks recently.

You Could Have Gum Disease

Sensitive gums when brushing or flossing along with possible bleeding is a good sign of gum disease. Gum disease should be treated and recognized early on; simple gingivitis can quickly turn into periodontal disease if left untreated. Let your dentist know if you’re experiencing these symptoms.

No matter the case, tooth pain and aches are usually the sign of a problem- and it can’t hurt to speak with your dentist about it. At Greenspoint Dental, we offer routine teeth cleanings as well as treatment for gum disease and cavities and many cosmetic procedures. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, contact us today to make an appointment.

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