Are You Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard?

Frequent tooth brushing breaks down plaque and eliminates bacteria; however, there is such thing as too much of a good thing. While you should brush your teeth every morning and night to reduce the buildup of tartar, brushing your teeth too hard or vigorously can harm your enamel and gums – resulting in various dental problems.

The Consequences of Overbrushing

Overbrushing can lead to receding gum lines, causing pockets to form between the teeth and exposing their roots. These pockets are a breeding ground for bacteria reproduction, making them sensitive and prone to infection.

If gum recession goes untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures suffer substantial damage that can result in periodontal disease (gum disease). Gum disease is a significant dental concern that causes tooth loss and gum infection, which requires surgery to fix.

Furthermore, rough brushing wears down tooth enamel, making them more vulnerable to decay.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

Do not scrub too hard. Plaque is soft, so as long as you gently – and thoroughly – reach all the areas of your mouth, you will clean your teeth without damage. Do not forcefully push the bristles against your teeth until they bend. Use small, circular strokes to cover each tooth on all sides, rather than use a back-and-forth, saw-like motion.

Only use soft – or even extra soft – brushes since they do an effective job at cleaning your teeth and are less likely to damage your enamel. Replace your toothbrush every three months or as soon as signs of wear, such as frayed bristles, are evident.

Don’t forget to floss every day since it is critical to removing plaque and bacteria between your teeth, where toothbrushes cannot reach.

If you are interested in getting your teeth cleaned in Georgia, contact our Austell dentist at Austell Dental Associates today.