Taking care of your oral health is important, and that includes flossing regularly. But what if flossing hurts? It might be tempting to skip flossing altogether, but that's not a good idea. In fact, if flossing hurts, it's actually a sign that you need to come in and see us.
Why Does Flossing Hurt?
There are a few reasons why flossing might hurt. One possibility is that you're not using the right technique. If you're flossing too hard, you could be irritating your gums. Another possibility is that you have inflammation or infection in your gums, which can make flossing uncomfortable. Finally, if you have a filling or crown that is loose or damaged, flossing can catch on it and cause pain.
No matter the reason, don't ignore flossing pain. If you continue to floss despite the pain, you could make the problem worse. Instead, come in and see us so we can figure out what's causing the pain and how to fix it.
What Can We Do to Help?
If your gums are inflamed or infected, we can prescribe medication to help clear up the infection. We can also teach you the proper flossing technique to ensure you're not irritating your gums. If you have a loose or damaged filling or crown, we can repair or replace it.
In some cases, the pain you're experiencing might not be related to flossing at all. It could be a sign of a more serious problem, such as gum disease or even oral cancer. That's why it's so important to come in and see us if you're experiencing any pain, so we can rule out any underlying issues.
The Importance of Regular Oral Care
Flossing is an important part of your oral care routine, but we understand flossing can be inconvenient or sometimes challenging! If you consistently struggle to properly floss, you don't need to worry. There are many other tools on the market that offer similar benefits:
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Water flossers: These devices use a stream of water to clean between your teeth. They are a good option for people who have braces or other dental work that makes flossing difficult.
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Interdental brushes: These small brushes are designed to fit between your teeth. They are a good option for people who have large gaps between their teeth.
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Floss threaders: These devices help you thread floss under dental bridges or partial dentures.
No matter which method you choose, the important thing is to clean between your teeth every day. This will help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Remember, don't hesitate to come in and see us if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health. We're here to help you keep your smile healthy and bright!
Taking care of your oral health is important, and that includes flossing regularly. But what if flossing hurts? It might be tempting to skip flossing altogether, but that's not a good idea. In fact, if flossing hurts, it's actually a sign that you need to come in and see us.