Totally agree about easing up on pressure—I used to scrub like crazy thinking it'd make my teeth cleaner, but it just made my gums angry. My orthodontist actually suggested brushing gently in small circles instead of back-and-forth strokes, and that helped a lot. Timing-wise, I haven't noticed much difference brushing before or after meals, but I do avoid brushing immediately after acidic foods (like citrus or soda) because apparently that can make sensitivity worse. Waiting about 30 mins after eating something acidic seems to help me. Might be worth experimenting with timing around certain foods rather than meals in general... everyone's gums seem to have their own quirks, lol.
"Waiting about 30 mins after eating something acidic seems to help me."
Yeah, that's a good call. I learned the hard way after my dentist explained that brushing right after acidic stuff basically rubs the acid deeper into your enamel—ouch. Saltwater rinses have been my go-to lately; they're gentle enough not to irritate but still soothe angry gums. OTC gels can be hit or miss for me... some feel great initially but then leave a weird aftertaste. Guess it's all trial and error with our quirky gums, haha.
Saltwater rinses are my jam too, honestly. OTC gels always feel kinda slimy to me, and that weird aftertaste lingers way too long. My ortho suggested a toothpaste for sensitive gums, which surprisingly helped a bit. But yeah, the waiting-after-acidic-food thing is legit—I ignored it once after lemonade and regretted it instantly...lesson learned the hard way, lol.
Have you tried baking soda rinses yet? Super cheap and doesn't leave that weird slimy feel like gels. Tastes kinda salty-weird at first, but honestly way better than the lingering gel aftertaste...at least for me. Worth a shot maybe?
I've been hesitant about baking soda rinses myself, mostly worried they'd irritate my gums even more...but your experience is reassuring. Might cautiously give it a try, gels haven't exactly been pleasant for me either. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
