27 May The Reason Your Teeth Still Hurt After Brushing Twice a Day
You’ve ticked all the boxes: you brush every morning and night, you avoid sugary snacks, and maybe you’ve even added mouthwash into the mix. So why are your teeth still sensitive, aching, or throbbing? The truth is, brushing twice a day isn’t always enough to guarantee pain-free teeth — and there are a few sneaky culprits that could be working against you. If you’re still uncomfortable despite your best efforts, it might be time to chat with experienced dentists in Chatswood who can spot what’s really going on.
Sensitivity Isn’t Just About Sugar
Tooth pain or sensitivity doesn’t always come from cavities. In fact, some of the most common causes of lingering discomfort are things many people don’t realise they’re doing.
Here are a few issues to watch for:
- Brushing too hard: Using too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush can wear down enamel and expose the sensitive layer underneath.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (often during sleep): This can cause microscopic cracks and constant pressure on nerves.
- Gum recession: This exposes the roots of your teeth, which don’t have the same protective enamel coating.
- Acid erosion: Frequently sipping soft drinks, citrus, or wine can wear away the surface of your teeth — even if you brush well.
You might be doing everything right technically, but if any of these factors are in play, your teeth could still be taking a hit.
Are You Using the Right Toothpaste?
Not all toothpaste is created equal. Some “whitening” formulas are actually quite abrasive and can make sensitive teeth worse over time. If you’re already dealing with discomfort, switching to a toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth can help block pain signals and protect exposed dentin.
But here’s the catch: it doesn’t work overnight. It often takes a couple of weeks of consistent use before you’ll notice a real difference.
Hidden Problems Only a Dentist Can Spot
Even if your daily routine is excellent, there are some dental issues that simply aren’t visible in the mirror. Only a dentist can check for deeper problems like:
- Tiny cracks in your enamel
- Cavities between teeth
- Old or loose fillings that allow bacteria to seep in
- Infected or inflamed nerves inside the tooth
- Gum disease, which can cause both tooth and gum pain
These aren’t things you can fix with a better toothbrush — they need a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. A quick check-up can often reveal more in 15 minutes than months of at-home guesswork.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Tooth pain isn’t something to “wait and see” about. Even if the discomfort is mild or comes and goes, it’s usually a sign that something needs attention. Left untreated, small problems can quickly turn into bigger ones — and more expensive ones too.
Pay attention to:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Pain when biting down
- Aching that lingers after brushing or flossing
- Throbbing or sharp pain at random times
These are all signals that your mouth is trying to tell you something. And early treatment almost always leads to better outcomes.
The Bottom Line? Pain-Free Starts With Personalised Care
Oral health is incredibly personal. What works perfectly for one person might fall short for another — and that’s why regular dental care is so important. Your brushing habits are a great start, but they’re just one part of the picture.
So if your teeth are still giving you grief despite good hygiene, don’t just reach for another tube of sensitive toothpaste. Make an appointment, get a professional opinion, and get back to smiling with confidence. Because pain shouldn’t be part of your everyday — and with the right care, it doesn’t have to be.
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More information:
- Sensitive Teeth: Why They Hurt and How to Stop the Pain
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/sensitive-teeth - TOOTH SENSITIVITY Common Tooth Pain Causes
https://www.listerine.com/tooth-sensitivity/tooth-pain-causes
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Last Updated on May 27, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD
