Dr. Chip Tartaroff got this question from
Bernice, who lives in Canada:
Hi - Could you please help me? Prior to 3 months ago, I was an
occasional flosser. For the last 3 months, I've been flossing every
night and want to continue the habit. Eventually, it has become
easier to get the floss between my teeth & gums, which I
attributed to my consistent flossing, however, my teeth have become
sensitive to cold & hot temperatures. I now believe that my gums
have receded some, thereby exposing some of the roots, which is
causing this sensitivity. My gums don't bleed, aren't sensitive or
discoloured. I've been using Sensodyne for about a month now, which
has reduced the sensitivity by about 50%, but it's becoming
frustrating. Is it possible that I'm flossing too deep? Can you give
me any helpful advice? Thank you so much for your help and
consideration. I appreciate it! - Bernice.
Sharing the question with Dr. Jay W. Friedman, clinical dentist, educator, and friend of the NFC, Dr. Friedman wrote this detailed and helpful reply.
Dr. T. forwarded your query and suggested I might reply.
First, if you think your new flossing regimen has caused the
sensitivity of your teeth, you should go back to your previous
behavior and see if the sensitivity reduces. If so, then have the
cause and the solution.
Second, it would be unusual and
unlikely that flossing, unless really excessive and forceful, was the
cause of the sensitivity. It might be coincidental. But if you are
"sawing" rapidly and vigorously with the floss between the
teeth, it could cause some sensitivity.
Third, if your gums receded due to the flossing, it would be
indicative of their being swollen and inflamed, in which case they
would likely have bled easily. You say they don't bleed, aren't
sensitive and discolored, suggesting that they were not previously
inflamed and that you have just noticed some recession that was there
before but unnoticed.
Fourth, when was the last time you had a dental examination and a
prophylaxis? If not within a year, you should consider it - and
demonstrate your flossing technique to the dentist and/dental
hygienist to see if it's excessive.
Fifth, avoid hot and cold temperatures that cause you irritation.
Sixth, moderation in all things is the 6th most sensible thing to do.
I don't recall what the other five are.
Good luck and best wishes,
Jay W. Friedman, DDS, MPH
There is little that can be said to improve on Jay Friedman's reply.
We hope you find this helpful, Bernice, and please let us know how things work out for you!
Floss on!
Dr. T
