Let’s face it: it’s challenging enough to discipline ourselves to floss as recommended every day. If your teeth hurt after flossing, the challenge is doubled. After all, isn’t flossing supposed to help, not hurt? If your teeth hurt after flossing or you are experiencing lingering pain after flossing, here are six possible reasons why (and what to do about it!).
Help, my teeth hurt after flossing!
We get it. If your teeth hurt after flossing, it is a totally normal response to feel like you should stop. It’s like pressing on a bruise – why would you keep doing the thing that is causing you pain?
Here’s the thing: it’s possible that the cause of lingering pain after flossing isn’t related to the flossing itself, and flossing is crucial for your dental health. Let’s look at some reasons why your teeth hurt after flossing.
6 reasons why your teeth hurt after flossing
If your teeth hurt after flossing, it makes sense to feel concerned. Here are six of the most common reasons that your teeth hurt after flossing, along with suggestions for treatment.
1. Your flossing technique needs work
This is the simplest and most common reason your teeth hurt after flossing. If you are flossing roughly, it’s possible that the floss might be irritating your gums. Once the gums are irritated, every time they are jostled by floss, pain reoccurs. Sometimes, not flossing regularly and then starting up can also cause irritation.
If you aren’t sure how to floss, ask your dental hygienist or dentist for tips and instructions on how to floss properly. If this is the reason your teeth hurt after flossing, you should find relief once the irritation calms down.
2. Your teeth are sensitive
Teeth become sensitive for a variety of reasons. Maybe the enamel is worn down, exposing the dentin, or maybe there are cracks in your teeth. You might grind your teeth, causing uneven wear that causes sensitivity on one side or another. Whatever the reason for your sensitive teeth, flossing may cause twinges of pain as you pass by that area in your mouth.
It’s important to talk to your dentist about increased sensitivity, as that can be a sign of a more serious condition. While they treat the condition, they may also recommend a sensitive teeth toothpaste to help ease the pain.
3. You have gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Plaque build-up causes the gums to become tender and swollen, and flossing may cause pain (and bleeding).
Nobody wants to have a mouthful of blood after flossing, and many people quickly abandon the practice if this happens. Although we understand how this might seem logical, flossing is really important when you are experiencing the beginning stages of gum disease. The key word here is “beginning.” If you stop flossing, more plaque can build up, and the disease could progress. Definitely talk to your dentist about what you are experiencing, and be gentle with your flossing as you work with them to treat your gingivitis.
4. Your dental restorations are loose
Aging dental restorations like dental crowns can cause teeth to feel loose after flossing. Dental crowns don’t last forever, and when they begin to loosen, the nerves in the tooth roots can become exposed. This can cause pain after flossing as each pull of the floss loosens them just a bit more.
If your tooth hurts when flossing after filling, it may be that the filling is also cracked or loose. If the filling is brand new, the filled tooth may still be sensitive.
For all of these reasons, it is again important to give your dentist a call.
In the meantime, for a loose crown or dental filling, instead of pulling floss straight up between the teeth, you can slide a short length of it though your teeth. This still removes plaque and bacteria without placing upward pressure on the crown or filling.
5. An adjustment to your braces or permanent retainer is causing pain
If your teeth hurt after flossing with braces, pay attention to when it happens. Have you just gotten a new wire or other adjustment? Does a bracket feel loose or are your gums swollen? Chances are good it’s not the flossing itself causing pain but another factor.
Flossing with a permanent retainer can be very challenging as well. If you are not experienced, it is easy to irritate the gums and cause lingering pain after flossing. There are specific techniques for flossing with a permanent retainer. Take the time to practice, and be gentle until you get the technique down. This could help eliminate pain after flossing.
6. You have tooth decay
Despite your best efforts (and regular flossing), tooth decay is possible between the teeth. As it progresses, tooth decay begins to eat through the tooth towards the sensitive nerves in the tooth pulp. Once this occurs, this could cause your teeth to hurt while you are flossing. Many people will also experience lingering pain after flossing.
The only treatment for this is to treat the decay with a filling. Left untreated, cavities can cause significant oral health challenges, including dental abscess and tooth loss.
Get help for your tooth pain
It’s important that you don’t abandon flossing altogether if your teeth hurt after flossing. All dentists agree that flossing properly once a day is one of the best ways to prevent serious oral heath issues. Make sure you know how to floss properly, and get help if the problem persists.
Not only is AZ Dentist an Arizona emergency dentist, we can also help you improve your overall oral health. Get in touch today!
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