Are you experiencing a toothache after flossing? Don’t worry because you are not the only one! This situation is pretty usual, especially with people that are doing it for the first time. However, there are cases where flossing ache is a sign of more serious tooth issues. To find out whether you need to schedule an appointment at a dental clinic, check out these common causes:  

New at Flossing

Usually, people who experience pain after or during flossing are those that are new at it. Improper techniques and tools are the most common reasons for this unpleasant ache.

At the end of the day, flossing means putting a sharp rope between your teeth and cutting away potential breeding spots for bacteria. However, it is not supposed to be painful. Instead of being an angry flosser, try doing gentler and slower movements.

After you change your approach, the pain should slowly go away. If it doesn’t, consult with your dental clinic and find out whether you are facing a more complicated issue. 

Tooth Decay

Brushing and flossing are surely reducing the number of bacteria in our mouths. Unfortunately, sometimes bacteria can find ways to avoid its nemesis. When it builds up, decay, cavities, and infections appear. That is why the second reason for your painful floss is tooth decay.

The pain you are experiencing can be located only in one spot. In this case, you probably have decay or cavities in that exact place. Bacteria are known to gather in corners and in between teeth, right where you are doing your regular flosses.

Look out for other signs of tooth damage such as sensitivity to temperature variations and pain while eating. If the pain is constant or starts getting worse, immediately schedule a dental inspection. 


Proper flossing is crucial for maintaining your oral health. But so is proper brushing! When we do it too hard or when we use a strong toothbrush, our teeth can become more sensitive. Tooth sensitivity or also known as dentin hypersensitivity is a medical condition that can be noticed through several symptoms.

Pain while flossing is one of them. Others include pain while drinking hot and cold beverages, discomfort while eating, and sensitivity to cold air. This condition can be easily fixed at the dental clinic.

It occurs because of damage to the protective layer – enamel. When enamel wears off, more sensitive layers are exposed such as dentin. Neural endings are now more sensitive to outside conditions, causing our slight and sharp toothaches. 

Gum Disease

The worst-case scenario is gum disease. Medically known as gingivitis, this disease can be caused due to improper or lack of oral hygiene. Some of the other signs are bleeding, swollen gums, redness and inflammation, tenderness, and bad breath. 

People who floss and have this condition are bound to experience pain. This is because they are removing a significant amount of plaque and tartar from their teeth. Don’t worry though! The best things you could do for healing gingivitis are brushing and flossing. 

It might hurt at the beginning, but it will definitely prevent periodontitis. This is the last stage of gum disease which can result in severe situations such as tooth loss. For permanently fixing gingivitis, you must consult with a dental specialist.  


Whatever the cause for your toothache is, don’t stop flossing. In most cases, the ache you feel is because your teeth are getting used to being properly cleaned. This is especially important in the case of gingivitis. If it isn’t properly addressed in its early phases, it will evolve into periodontitis.  

Remember to do gentle movements and consult with your personal dentist. Don’t be afraid to ask every question that pops in your mind. Oral health and hygiene are extremely important for your overall well-being.