Could You Be Brushing Too Much?
You likely know the importance of brushing your teeth regularly to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, most people tend not to brush enough, leading to a higher risk of developing cavities. In fact, according to a study, only about 25% of people brush their teeth long enough.
But what happens if you decide to really start taking care of your teeth? Is it possible to brush your teeth too much, and are there any dangers of over-brushing? Unfortunately, yes. Here’s what to know.
Signs You’re Brushing Your Teeth Too Much
Maybe you’ve just been to the dentist and heard you should focus on better brushing techniques. You decide to spend longer brushing your teeth and make sure to really get in there for healthier gums and teeth.
However, proper oral health is mostly about technique and consistency. Brushing and flossing twice daily is essential, but brushing longer than two to three minutes is not better. Plus, aggressive brushing can damage your teeth and cause problems.
A few signs could indicate you’re overdoing it and using too much force. You might notice:
- Frayed or matted toothbrush bristles
- Bleeding gums
- Pain with hot or cold drinks or foods
- Pain when you brush or floss
- Worn or shiny teeth
- V-shaped indents in your teeth near the gums
Dangers of Over-Brushing
Over-brushing your teeth, whether for too long or with too much pressure or force, can damage the hard outer surface called enamel. Symptoms you might experience are a result of this damage, which include enamel abrasion, receding gums, and tooth sensitivity.
Enamel Abrasion
Enamel abrasion is tooth wear or loss of mineralized tissue and tooth structure. Abrasion happens from mechanical or physical forces, such as grinding your teeth.
Over-brushing, especially aggressive brushing with too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush, also causes enamel abrasion. Unfortunately, this type of tooth wear and loss is not reversible.
Over time, the enamel may wear away until you begin to destroy the inner dentin layer and structures of the tooth. These lead to higher risks of infections and cavities.
Receding Gums
Over-brushing can also destroy your gums and cause the tissue to pull away from your tooth. As the gums recede, the roots become exposed, and pockets may develop where bacteria can collect and cause cavities. Your teeth may become painful and sensitive to food and drinks, and hurt during brushing and flossing.
Your gums should be snug against your teeth to protect the roots and help anchor your teeth in place. Without treatment, gum recession and progressive gum loss can eventually cause loose or wiggling teeth, bone and tooth loss, and tooth movement.
Tooth Sensitivity
As the enamel wears down, the inner layers of your teeth, or dentin, become exposed. This area of your teeth has hollow tubes or channels called tubules. Normally, the enamel blocks these tubules, but as they become exposed, hot and cold foods can reach the nerves beyond the channels, causing sensitivity and pain. This same process can also happen to exposed roots.
Proper Brushing Techniques
Over-brushing leads to irreversible damage and tooth and enamel loss, but you can avoid these with good hygiene habits and brushing techniques. Believe it or not, there is an ideal way to brush your teeth.
For optimal hygiene and healthy gums and teeth:
- Use a soft-bristled brush
- Brush your teeth twice daily for two to three minutes
- Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle
- Use gentle pressure
- Brush in a circular motion over the front, back, and chewing part of your teeth
- Use fluoride toothpaste
Regular brushing is key, so make sure to clean your teeth twice daily. However, you may need to brush more often if you wear clear aligners, braces, or other mouth appliances. Replace your toothbrush when the bristles fray or every three to four months.
Keep Your Teeth Healthy With Great Lakes Dental
Regular dental cleanings and check-ups help keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free. With exams and tooth maintenance, your dentist can spot brushing-related problems early on and suggest hygiene changes and treatment to prevent them from worsening. That’s our goal at Great Lakes Dental. As a dentist in Mentor, Ohio, total smile care is our goal, from general oral health to your smile's appearance. We provide comprehensive assessments and treatments using expertise and leading-edge technology to deliver results. Discover advanced dental care. Book an appointment today!