An electric toothbrush can do better cleaning than a manual toothbrush. But electric-powered toothbrush users often complain about their teeth problems. Hence, they can not figure out what causes tooth pain after using an electric toothbrush.
When an electric toothbrush is used like a manual toothbrush, it thins the enamel and scrapes the gums off. Moreover, the vibration of the toothbrush distresses sensitive teeth and causes tooth pain.
In this article, we aim to elaborate how an electric toothbrush affects oral health. In addition, we will suggest some home remedies to cure tooth nerve pain.
Why do my teeth hurt after using electric toothbrush?
In general, an electric toothbrush does not hurt teeth. But if your teeth gets hurt after using an electric toothbrush, you need to look for possible reasons.
One of the most common reasons behind tooth pain is the wrong application of a electric- powered toothbrush. If you press the brush too hard on your teeth, it will destroy the enamel, gum, and root. Brushing too frequently with an electric toothbrush is another potential cause of sore teeth.
Another reason is existing dental problems. You may already have sensitive teeth or sore gums. If you use an electric toothbrush in such a condition, the vibration will upset your sensitivity more.
Your teeth may get hurt after brushing if you have a professional dental treatment. It is temporary and may take a few days to heal. All you need to do is to brush your teeth carefully after the treatment.
Why does my electric toothbrush hurt my gums?
Gum cleaning is essential to prevent bacteria and plaque. But when you hold the electric toothbrush in the wrong angle and apply excessive pressure on it, it may hurt your gums. Also, you will see your gum is pushed down.
Brushing right after the eating may cause the gum pain. Because the amount of acid existing in your mouth at that time will erode the enamel mostly. And it may slightly help in offending the gum.
If your electric toothbrush is not soft-bristled, it may hurt your gums too. Moreover, this type of toothbrush adds more discomfort to an irritated gum.
What are the disadvantages of an electric toothbrush?
In case you want to switch to an electric toothbrush, you must know the disadvantages of it so that you won’t regret your decision.
Hard to maintain
An electric toothbrush is really hard to maintain. It requires extra care, longer rinsing and cleaning, recharging, replacements on time, etc. A tiny act of inattention may damage the brush for good.
Hard to find
Electric toothbrushes belong to specific brands. When it’s time to replace the brush head or batteries, you may not find them in local stores. Only the particular brand outlets will provide the necessities that you need for your powered brush.
Needs power
The biggest flaw of an electric-powered toothbrush is, it needs power before each brushing session. If you are in an area with no or less electric facilities, you will not be able to charge the brush.
And no electricity means no brushing. Also, it will stop working halfway if not charged enough. Moreover, overcharging can damage the toothbrush too.
Non-replaceable batteries
Some electric toothbrushes have non-replaceable batteries. It means when the batteries face issues, the brush is gone for good. You have to buy a new brush again.
High price
In a word, electric toothbrush is a budget-killer hygienic item. It costs a lot. On top of that, frequent purchases of replacement heads, batteries, or a new brush can make an individual not to buy it even if necessary.
Easy to break
Compared to normal toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes are more prone to breakage. Excessive pressure on the brush head can cause that part to break. Again, if the brush is dropped from a height, it may break.
Bright and noise
Some electric toothbrushes are too bright and noisy that can annoy kids and adults. The vibration feeling may not always be liked.
Not for sensitive teeth
The vibration of an electric toothbrush can worsen the sensitive teeth and their gums. Even in normal teeth, the brush can invite troubles if not used properly.
No education on brushing technique
A manual toothbrush requires motion to thoroughly clean each tooth, gums, and the tongue. However, compared to a manual toothbrush, an electric toothbrush requires way less motion.
If a kid starts to brush his own teeth with a powered toothbrush, he won’t learn the proper brushing technique.
Takes more place
An electric toothbrush along with its charger takes more place on the bathroom counter. For a bathroom with limited counter place, it would be a big deal to store the item.
How do you stop nerve pain in your tooth?
The best way to stop nerve pain in tooth is to use over-the-counter pain relievers or anesthetics. However, before you use them or consult your dentist,
you can try these home remedies for a temporary relief.
Salt water
Combine 1 teaspoon of table salt and 8 ounces of water. Rinse for up to 2 minutes and spit it out.
Hydrogen peroxide
Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Rinse thoroughly for up to 2 minutes and spit it out, make sure not to swallow.
Cold compress
Hold an ice pack (or frozen vegetables in a pinch) on the troublesome side for 15 minutes at a time.
Alternatively, try to hold ice water in your mouth for 5-10 seconds at a time. Make sure not to bite ice.
Warm compress
Put one or two handfuls of uncooked rice in a clean sock. Tie the opening securely and microwave it for 2-3 minutes. Press the warm sock on the affected side until it gets cold.
Ice
Put some ice cubes in your hand in accordance with the side of your affected tooth (for instance: the left hand for the left-side sore tooth). Rub the cubes in the soft space between your thumb and forefinger.
Do it for 7 minutes or until you feel numb in that area. In this way, your brain won’t receive the pain signals and will let the nerve pain increase.
Garlic
Chew a fresh clove of garlic or apply garlic paste on your ailing tooth. You can add a little salt to the paste for better results. Application of a cotton ball soaked in garlic oil on the sore tooth will work too.
Peppermint tea bag
You can use this hot or cold. Steep a peppermint tea bag in boiling water for 5 minutes. Cool it down in the room temperature for a few minutes.
When it’s still warm, place it on the sore tooth, and bite it down for 10 minutes. If you prefer a cooling sensation, place the tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes before applying.
Clove oil
Soak a cotton ball or moisten a Q-tip in clove oil. Dab it against the sore area for up to 2 minutes. Alternatively, dilute a few drops of clove oil in a cup of water and use it as a mouthwash.
Thyme oil
- Pour a drop of thyme oil in a cup of water.
- Rinse your mouth with this solution.
- Or, dilute a few drops of oil in water.
- Pour a few drops of this solution on a cotton ball, and apply it on the offending area.
Oregano oil
Place a drop of oregano oil on a Q-tip and massage the sore tooth for up to 2 minutes. Do it for a few times a day.
Vanilla extract
Use a Q-tip, cotton ball, or a finger to put a small amount of vanilla extract. Apply it on the sore area for a few times a day.
Guava leaves
Chew fresh guava leaves or make a tea with them and use as a mouthwash.
Wheatgrass
Make wheatgrass juice and rinse your mouth with it for a few times a day.
FAQ
What does nerve damage in teeth feel like?
Nerve damage in teeth feels like sharp and stabbing pain, burning, tingling or pulling, or a dull constant ache. Sometimes the impact can result in the numbness in the gums or jaw.
Can electric toothbrush remove tartar?
The answer depends on the density of the tartar. For extremely hardened, and long-time tartar, nothing is as effective as scaling done by dentists. But an electric toothbrush can remove tartar in its primary stage. In addition, an individual should floss his teeth regularly to prevent tartar from forming. Gargling with white vinegar and warm saltwater is also helpful for dissolving tartar.
Are electric toothbrushes safe for crowns?
In general, an electric toothbrush does not harm crowns and veneers. However, if the crown is artificial, then a powered toothbrush is a big NO. The vibration that it creates will loosen the crown. When it happens, even the best dentist in the world would find it difficult to retighten the implant.
How long should you brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush?
A good rule of thumb is to use an electric toothbrush for not more than two minutes. You should hold the brush on each tooth for 3-5 seconds at a 45 degree angle. The built-in timer will help you to keep track of the brushing time. If you need more than two minutes, that’s fine, but don’t overdo it. Try to finish cleaning within an extra 30 seconds.
Do dentists recommend Oral-B or Sonicare?
Though both brands are efficient in reducing dental problems, Oral-B is the favourite of dentists. Oral-B powered brushes with a 3D brushing action provide better cleaning than the ones from Sonicare. However, the dentist recommendation may vary according to the patient’s dental needs.
Verdict
Tooth pain after using an electric toothbrush can be reduced if you use the brush with caution. Although an electric toothbrush has many downsides, it can do the cleaning that a manual toothbrush may not do.
No matter what type of toothbrush you use, consult with your dentist for a regular checkup. And make sure to maintain your toothbrush as per the requirements.
Also read – should i keep my electric toothbrush on the charger