The "hairy" feeling on your teeth is most likely due to the buildup of plaque.
Here's a breakdown:
- Plaque Formation: Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. It's a biofilm comprised of bacteria, saliva, and food debris. Even with regular brushing, a small amount of plaque is always present.
- The Fuzzy Feeling: As plaque accumulates, it creates a rough or fuzzy texture that you perceive as "hairy." The more plaque buildup, the more pronounced this sensation becomes.
- Acid Production and Enamel Damage: The bacteria in plaque metabolize sugars and carbohydrates, producing acids as a byproduct. These acids attack the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, which can lead to cavities and other dental problems.
- When it's Worse: This feeling is typically more noticeable in the morning after you've been sleeping and saliva flow has decreased, allowing plaque to build up overnight. It's also more prominent after eating sugary or starchy foods that fuel plaque formation.
What Can You Do?
- Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas that your toothbrush can't reach.
- Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help kill the bacteria that contribute to plaque formation.
- Professional Cleanings: Regular dental checkups and cleanings allow your dentist or hygienist to remove hardened plaque (tartar or calculus) that you can't remove with brushing and flossing alone.
- Dietary Changes: Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks, as they promote plaque buildup.
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can effectively control plaque buildup and reduce or eliminate the "hairy" feeling on your teeth, keeping them healthy and strong.
