Symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder are not always as obvious as some people may believe. However, there are a number of small indicators that may help to provide you with a rudimentary diagnosis. OCD may be expressed in a number of ways, and one of the more common signs is compulsive tooth brushing or over-brushing. This can be extremely damaging to the teeth and gums, as it can strip away the protective enamel on a person’s teeth, and leave gums bleeding, swollen, red and/or irritated.

Generally, compulsive tooth brushing comes from the fear of dirt or germs being hidden in the mouth, and excessive brushing is an attempt to get rid of them. However, it is important that compulsive tooth brushing is addressed, or somewhat managed in order to ensure that permanent damage isn’t done to the teeth or gums. Today, we’ll take a look at how a compulsive tooth-brusher may cope, and what he or she can do to reduce any potential damage.

Visit The Dentist

The best way to get good advice on your oral hygiene is by speaking with a licensed dentist. There are a number of helpful tips a dentist may give to curb overbrushing, such as using a soft or extra soft-bristled brush to help reduce the damage you may be doing to your teeth. However, it is important to not allow this information to make you feel more stressed, as this may lead to even more compulsive brushing. By visiting sites like http://www.bestelectrictoothbrush.org.uk/ you can compare the best toothbrush options available online after your initial discussion.

Try To Relax

As briefly mentioned before, OCD tends to thrive on stress and anxiety. Therefore, controlling stress is a primary way to help a person cope with compulsive tooth brushing. Seeking professional stress-relief methods and strategies may help an individual maintain a relaxed mental state. Meditation and breathing exercises are additional ways a person may help himself relax.

Understand The Signs Of OCD

Understanding the signs of OCD can be a great help when it comes to reducing obsessive tooth brushing. There are a number of physical feelings that are associated with OCD, such as feeling sick, stomach aches, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, muscle tension, and some forms of derealization.

There are also many emotions that have been linked with the condition such as shame, sadness, anger, anxiety, fear, and guilt. If you are experiencing these feelings on a regular basis and acting out because of them, it may be a good idea to speak with a mental health professional who can provide you with a formal diagnosis.

There are a number of different factors to consider when it comes to obsessive teeth cleaning, but knowing the damage that it may cause, and seeking professional help are important steps to coping successfully. There are a number of highly trained therapists who treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, and they can teach affected persons practical exercises to reduce anxiety.

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