Excessive teeth brushing (takes over an hour to brush my teeth)

[AcaFimParticipant]

Hi,

Does anyone have any experience and/or solutions on excessive (duration it takes) teeth brushing OCD?

My issue is that it takes me a very long time to brush my teeth (between 1 to 1.5 hours). I’m extremely gentle with how I brush and use a very soft bristled toothbrush, so there is NO aggressive brushing. In fact, prior to the OCD developing, my old brushing method (which was around 3 minutes) was so bad that it caused receding gums. The irony is that this new routine is so gentle but it’s taking a very long time due to OCD/fatigue. Over time a routine/order has developed that is specific and takes so long. I understand it’s a perfectionistic type of OCD.

Things I am trying to do are:

• watching YouTube videos of dental hygienists brushing their teeth and trying to copy them
• letting go of being perfect and accepting that I may have missed a spot
• getting ok with distractions while brushing

I’ve read on reddit that some people have used a timer. However, I haven’t used a timer yet as I feel that might stress me out.

I want this activity to become unconscious again. I used to not think about brushing my teeth and had no dental issues. Now when I brush my teeth I can’t be distracted by anything otherwise I get doubts about if I have brushed a spot or not.

Thanks

[Forum Moderators]

Hi:

We’re sorry you’re going through such a difficult time with OCD and we want you to know that OCD Action offers several types of support for you

You can contact the OCD Action Helpline and Email Ser to talk to or email someone who understands OCD.

Our Helpline volunteers provide confidential information and support for people with OCD. Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand how it can impact your life. Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478
• email: support@ocdaction.orguk

Support groups for people with OCD offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support other people. Read information about UK-based groups here:

• OCD Action Skype/Phone/Zoom support groups: https://ocdaction.tessellate.online/i-need-support/ocd-action-skype-phone-zoom-support-groups/

If you don’t live in the UK, look for groups near you on the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) website. Under “Find Help”, choose “Listing Types”, then “Support Groups”: https://iocdf.org/

And please remember that you’re never alone – OCD Action is here to support you.

Forum Moderators

[Forum Moderators]

Hi:

Forum Moderators here – just checking in, as it’s been a while since we replied to your topic.

We want to be sure you know that, in addition to contacting the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service, you can visit our website’s Resources page: https://ocdaction.tessellate.online/resources/

You’ll find lots of helpful web-based resources on topics such as:

• An introduction to OCD
• Assessment and Diagnosis
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention
• Funding specialist treatment
• Getting a Yes from the NHS
• Good Quality CBT with ERP
• I am a parent of a young child
• Making the Most of Therapy
• Medication for OCD
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Preparing for a GP Appointment
• Primary Care for Adults
• Reassurance seeking
• Secondary Care for Adults
• Specialist Treatment for OCD and BDD
• Student Space: Management and Keeping Well
• Support at University
• Support for Families and Carers
• Treatment Options
• Treatments Not Recommended for OCD
• What to Look for in a Therapist
• Your Journey through the NHS

We hope you find these resources useful!

[Author]

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