Last Updated on 3 weeks by DR. ALBIN SIPES

Introduction

Looking after your teeth is an important part of good oral health. Bacteria build-up on your tongue and can easily transfer to the surface of your teeth, causing plaque, bad breath, tartar and even gingivitis. If you find yourself habitually rubbing or pushing your tongue against your teeth then it’s time to take action! In this blog post, we’ll break down why it’s not healthy to rub tongue on teeth, along with some tips for how to stop this common oral hygiene issue. We will also discuss the consequences of ignoring these warnings and what other preventative measures you should consider implementing in order to restore a healthy balance in the mouth – from flossing techniques to treatments designed specifically for restoring gum health. So read on if you’re ready to make a successful change towards dental wellbeing!

Understand the Reasons Behind Rubbing Your Tongue On Teeth

We’ve all done it at some point – rubbing our tongue on our teeth. It may seem like a completely harmless habit, but did you know that there are actually reasons behind this strange action? Let’s dive in and explore the potential causes.

Oral Health

One of the main reasons for rubbing your tongue on your teeth is to maintain good oral health. Our tongues are naturally coated in bacteria, and rubbing it against our teeth can help remove some of that bacteria. This can prevent plaque buildup and keep our mouths healthy.

Stress Relief

Believe it or not, rubbing your tongue on your teeth can also be a way to relieve stress. Our mouths are filled with nerves, making them a great source for releasing tension. You may find yourself unconsciously rubbing your tongue on your teeth when feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Sensory Stimulation

Our tongues are highly sensitive and have a large number of taste buds. Rubbing it against our teeth can provide some sensory stimulation, almost like a massage for our mouth. This can be especially true if we have something stuck between our teeth – the rubbing can help dislodge it and provide relief.

Habitual Behavior

Some people have developed the habit of rubbing their tongue on their teeth as a way to pass time or when they are bored. Like biting our nails or tapping our feet, this can be a repetitive action that we do without even realizing it.

Oral Fixation

In some cases, rubbing your tongue on your teeth can be a result of an oral fixation. This is often seen in children who have not yet outgrown their need for oral stimulation. It can also occur in adults who may have developed this habit as a coping mechanism.

Medical Conditions

In rare cases, constant rubbing of the tongue on teeth can be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as bruxism (teeth grinding) or oral thrush. If you notice persistent and excessive rubbing, it’s important to consult a dentist or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

So the next time you catch yourself rubbing your tongue on your teeth, remember that there may be reasons behind this seemingly odd behavior. Whether it’s for oral health, stress relief, or just a habit, understanding the cause can help us better control or manage it. Keep on smiling, and keep your tongue healthy too!

Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits

While rubbing your tongue on your teeth may provide some oral health benefits, it’s important to note that it should not be used as a replacement for good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing regularly, along with visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, are crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth.

Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding

Constantly rubbing your

tongue on your teeth could be a sign of teeth grinding. If you’re doing this, especially when you’re stressed or sleeping, it could lead to tooth damage. Here are some tips to break the habit:

Make a Conscious Effort

Awareness is the first step towards breaking any habit. Observe when you tend to rub your tongue on your teeth and try to stop yourself consciously when you catch yourself doing it.

Find Alternatives

If you’re doing it out of boredom, try to keep your mouth busy with healthier options like chewing sugar-free gum, drinking water, or eating crunchy fruits or vegetables.

Use a Mouth Guard

If you’re rubbing your tongue on your teeth while you sleep, a mouth guard might help. Consult your dentist for advice on the best options for you.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

If stress is causing you to rub your tongue on your teeth, finding ways to relax and manage your stress may help. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation, or yoga could be beneficial.

Remember, breaking a habit takes time and patience, so don’t get discouraged if progress seems slow. Celebrate small victories and keep at it! And, as always, visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and advice.

Look at Eating Habits and Food Additives

Certain foods or additives can cause an increase in oral sensitivity, leading to tongue rubbing. Pay attention to your diet and see if there are any patterns between what you eat and when you find yourself constantly rubbing your tongue on your teeth. Avoiding these triggers may help reduce the need to rub your tongue.

Seek Professional Help

If nothing seems to be helping or if the rubbing is causing pain or discomfort, it’s important to seek professional help. A dentist or doctor can assess your specific situation and provide personalized advice and treatment options.

Embrace Your Unique Habits

In the end, we all have unique habits and quirks that make us who we are. Rubbing your tongue on your teeth may seem strange to some, but as long as it’s not causing harm, there’s no need to be self-conscious about it. Embrace your uniqueness and keep smiling! #BeYourself #IndividualityMatters

Keep on rubbing, if that’s what makes you happy – but make sure to take care of your oral health while you’re at it! Healthy habits and regular dental check-ups are the key

Try Alternative Routines When You Feel the Urge to Rub Your Tongue

Instead of constantly rubbing your tongue on your teeth, try out some other routines that can provide a similar type of sensory stimulation. For example:

• Chew gum or suck on a mint
• Drink cold water or chew ice chips
• Brush your tongue gently with a toothbrush
• Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris from the surface of your tongue
• Chew on a piece of sugar-free candy or gum to increase saliva production and provide oral stimulation

These alternative routines not only provide sensory stimulation, but they also promote good oral hygiene habits. Experiment and find out what works best for you!

Take a Self-Inventory of Stressful Situations

As mentioned earlier, tongue rubbing can also be a result of stress or anxiety. Take note of when you find yourself constantly rubbing your tongue on your teeth and try to identify any triggers or stressful situations that may be causing this behavior. Once identified, work on finding healthy ways to manage and cope with these triggers instead.

Visit Your Dentist for an Oral Exam and Cleaning

Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining good oral health and can also help detect any underlying issues that may be causing tongue rubbing. This is why it’s important to visit your dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can also provide personalized advice on how to break the habit of rubbing your tongue on your teeth.

So go ahead, keep rubbing your tongue on your teeth if it brings you comfort, but always remember to prioritize your oral health. With these tips and advice, you can maintain a healthy mouth and continue to wear that beautiful smile with confidence

Consult with a Mental Health Professional, if Necessary

If tongue rubbing is causing persistent pain or discomfort, it could also be a sign of a larger underlying issue. In some cases, stress and anxiety can manifest in physical ways such as this. If you feel like your tongue rubbing may be related to mental health concerns, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide support and guidance on managing these issues and finding healthier coping mechanisms. Remember, taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tongue rubbing can be a common habit, but it’s important to be mindful of its potential effects on our oral health. By being aware and making conscious efforts, finding healthier alternatives, and seeking professional help when needed, we can break the habit and maintain a healthy mouth. Keep smiling and keep rubbing (if that’s what makes you happy), but always remember to prioritize your oral health! Keep Smiling Bright. So let’s continue to embrace our unique habits and quirks, but also take care of ourselves and keep our smiles shining bright. Thanks for reading and happy rubbing!

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. And remember, it’s okay to break habits and embrace change in order to improve our overall health and well-being!