Pain between teeth when flossing is common and can be concerning. This discomfort often points to underlying causes, from minor issues to more significant dental concerns. Understanding these reasons helps address the pain and maintain oral health.
Why Flossing Can Hurt
One frequent cause of pain during flossing is gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. Plaque accumulation along the gumline irritates gum tissue, leading to inflammation, tenderness, and bleeding. Inflamed gums are more sensitive, making flossing uncomfortable.
Improper flossing technique also contributes to discomfort. Using excessive force, snapping floss aggressively, or failing to curve it around the tooth can damage delicate gum tissue. This trauma causes immediate pain, bleeding, and gum recession. Proper technique prevents such injuries.
Food particles lodged tightly between teeth can also cause pain. Trapped particles exert pressure on gums and teeth, leading to irritation. Flossing dislodges these particles, but their removal can be painful, especially if they’ve caused inflammation.
Tooth sensitivity may also cause pain during flossing. This occurs if enamel has worn down or gum recession has exposed underlying dentin. When floss touches these sensitive areas, a sharp, brief pain can result.
Cavities or dental decay between teeth can cause sharp, localized pain. Floss might catch on a rough cavity edge or irritate a decayed tooth’s nerve. This pain often indicates a need for professional dental intervention. Issues with existing dental restorations, like worn or ill-fitting fillings, can also cause discomfort. These may have rough margins that shred floss or trap food, irritating gums.
Addressing the Discomfort
Employing proper flossing technique is fundamental for alleviating discomfort and promoting gum health. Take about 18 inches of floss, wrapping most around your middle fingers, holding a small section taut. Gently guide floss between teeth with a rubbing motion. Curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth, sliding it gently beneath the gumline. Slide floss up and down against the tooth surface, then repeat on the adjacent tooth.
Consistent daily flossing reduces gum inflammation. Regular removal of plaque and food debris prevents bacterial buildup, making gums healthier and less prone to pain and bleeding. Initial discomfort in inflamed gums typically improves within a week or two with persistence.
Choosing the right floss enhances comfort, especially for tight spaces or sensitive gums. Waxed floss slides easily, while unwaxed floss covers more surface area. For those with difficulty using traditional floss, interdental cleaners like brushes, dental picks, or water flossers offer effective alternatives.
Beyond flossing, maintain a comprehensive oral hygiene routine for gum health. Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque. An antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria, complementing brushing and flossing. Be gentle with all practices, especially when gums are inflamed, to encourage healing.
When Professional Help is Needed
If flossing pain or bleeding persists for a week or two despite proper technique, professional dental evaluation is needed. Prolonged discomfort suggests an underlying issue that at-home care cannot resolve. A dentist can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment.
Sharp, localized pain, especially with hot or cold sensitivity, warrants immediate attention. This pain could signal a deep cavity, cracked tooth, or dental abscess. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more extensive problems and infections.
Visible swelling, redness, or an abscess around a tooth or gum indicate serious infection. These signs require prompt professional intervention to prevent infection spread and preserve oral health. Loose teeth, even slight mobility, also need immediate dental assessment, as they can indicate advanced gum disease or other structural issues.
Recurring food trapping between teeth might suggest issues like tooth alignment problems, worn fillings, or new cavities. A dentist can assess these areas and provide solutions. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and prevention of dental problems.