Coughing While Brushing Your Teeth: Causes, Remedies, and Home Remedial Measures

Have you ever found yourself coughing while brushing your teeth? There could be several reasons behind this unwanted response. This article delves into the various causes, offers remedies, and suggests some home remedies to alleviate this issue.

Identifying the Causes of Teeth-Brushing Coughing

Several factors can contribute to the coughing you experience while brushing your teeth. Understanding these causes is the first step towards finding a suitable remedy.

Gag Reflex

Brushing your tongue or the back of your mouth might trigger the gag reflex, leading to an uncontrollable cough. This is a common reason for coughing during toothbrushing.

Toothpaste Ingredients

Even if you’ve switched to different toothpastes, certain ingredients such as strong flavors or foaming agents can irritate your throat, causing coughing. Consider choosing toothpaste with gentler ingredients or even alternatives to traditional toothpaste.

Post-Nasal Drip

If you have allergies or sinus issues, mucus can drip down your throat, causing irritation and coughing. This is particularly common for individuals who suffer from allergies or sinus problems.

Technique and Equipment

Brushing Technique: Brushing too vigorously or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can irritate your gums and throat, leading to a cough. Using a softer toothbrush and adopting a gentler brushing technique might help alleviate this issue.

Additionally, inhaling through your mouth while brushing can be a factor. Try to focus on breathing through your nose to prevent any unwanted inhalation.

Tackling Persistent Cough and Personalized Advice

If the coughing issue persists or is bothersome, it is wise to consult a dentist or healthcare professional for personalized advice. They can provide a more detailed diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Home Remedial Measures for Coughing

Mold in Your Sink

If you suspect that mold in your sink is the cause of your coughing, consider taking the following steps:

Change the problematic faucet. Pour bleach down the drain and let it sit for an hour. Pour two cups of boiling water down the drain. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda and let it sit for about a half hour. Finally, pour a third cup of boiling water down the drain.

These steps will help clear any mold or other contaminants in your sink.

Detoxifying Soda Toothbrushing

Some individuals are sensitive to detergents in toothpaste, such as sodium laureth sulfate, which can cause painful mouth cankers. Consider using a small amount of baking soda on a dampened toothbrush, or even brushing with a dampened toothbrush alone, to avoid these irritations. Baking soda can be a gentle yet effective alternative, especially for those with sensitive teeth and gums.

Conclusion

Coughing while brushing your teeth can be a frustrating experience, but understanding its causes and trying the appropriate remedies can help you find relief. Whether it's adjusting your toothpaste, taking care of mold in your sink, or changing your brushing technique, there are steps you can take to stop the cough and maintain good oral hygiene.

Remember, if the issue persists, consulting a professional will ensure the problem is correctly diagnosed and addressed.