If you notice that your teeth feel rough or uneven when you run your tongue over them, you may be wondering what is going on. Here are some of the possible reasons your teeth feel rough.

Build-up of tartar

Plaque is a sticky substance that can form on the surface of teeth. If your dental hygiene routine doesn't remove all of this plaque, it may start to harden until it becomes tartar. Tartar tends to form along the gum line and between teeth. When you run your tongue over the tartar, it will feel uneven and rough. You must visit a dentist or hygienist to have any tartar removed from your teeth. Failure to do so could increase the chance that you will experience tooth decay or gum disease.

Cracks and chips

A rough feeling tooth could also be a result of damage that has occurred. While teeth are very strong, they can still sustain cracks and chips. These may be caused by trauma created by a blow to the mouth, excessive grinding and clenching of the teeth or eating very hard foods. Cracks and chips tend to impact one particular part of a tooth rather than the whole surface. A dentist will be able to carry out cosmetic work to repair cracks and chips. They may also prescribe a mouthguard to help protect your teeth from excessive grinding.

Decaying teeth

Decay can also make your teeth feel rough. You may notice that the surface feels pitted or uneven. This could be a result of advancing decay which is eating away at the surface of the tooth. As bacteria feed on sugars in your mouth, acids are created. If you are not regularly brushing your teeth, these acids can wear away the enamel, which acts as a tooth's outer protective layer. If the decay is more acute, you may even be able to feel a hole where a cavity is forming. If you notice signs of tooth decay, it is important you visit a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to offer you further advice and may decide to provide fillings to your teeth to help arrest the progress of the decay.

If you are concerned about your dental health, you should make it a priority to book an appointment with a dentist today. Following a check-up, a dentist will be able to work with you to ensure your oral health is as good as it can be. Contact a dentist for more information. 

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