Can You Brush Your Teeth Too Much?

As children we were told to brush our teeth regularly so they would grow healthy and strong. Keeping up good oral hygiene is so important. However, many people may be quite surprised to find out that they are causing more harm than good to their teeth. According to the American Dental Association, some people may be using too much pressure when brushing their teeth, while others are not giving their teeth the proper amount of cleaning it needs. Improper care or over-brushing can lead to serious dental issues, such as sensitive teeth and gum recession. Making sure you are using proper oral hygiene without causing damage to the teeth or gums can help you maintain and keep a healthy, beautiful smile.


OVER-BRUSHING CAN LEAD TO…

SENSITIVE TEETH. If you are using a medium or hard toothbrush, you may want to think about switching to a softer one. Over-brushing your teeth with a medium to hard-bristled toothbrush can damage the enamel on your teeth and wear it down, making your teeth more sensitive. Being more thorough than aggressive when brushing your teeth can help stop the problem from getting worse. If your teeth have become too sensitive from over-brushing, be sure to visit your dentist so they can treat this issue.

Over-brushing can also lead to GUM RECESSION. Gum recession develops when the sensitive root area of your teeth becomes more exposed because you have pushed back the gums from brushing too much and too hard. When this happens, plaque, bacteria, and other forms of tooth decay can reach the roots of your teeth, which can create or worsen other oral concerns, such as periodontal disease. If this occurs, Dr. Guerra provides several periodontal treatments to help treat any issues you are having with your gums from over-brushing.

 

PROPER BRUSHING TECHNIQUE

Proper brushing techniques will not only improve your oral health, but it can also prevent other issues from occurring. Always brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes, especially in the morning and before you go to bed. Make sure you apply just enough pressure to your teeth when brushing them so that the bristles on your toothbrush do not damage your gums. Using soft, short strokes and positioning your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle can cause less damage to your teeth and gums. Be sure to floss daily and schedule regular visits with your dentist so they can examine your teeth to make sure everything is alright.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Guerra, or if you would like to learn more about proper dental care, feel free to contact Dr. Guerra at 561-844-6146. We’re here to help!

Proper Brushing Techniques:

1. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.

 

2. Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.

 

3. Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

 

4. To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.

 
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