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Brushing your teeth is the number one step in your daily oral care routine that will keep your teeth clean and help you maintain your dental health. When we think of dental hygiene, brushing our teeth is most likely the first image that comes to mind. Tooth brushing is embedded in history, in fact, it’s been in practice for thousands of years! The first “toothbrushes” ever recorded were being used between 3500-3000 B.C., and did you know that the modern design of the toothbrushes we use today came from the year 1780?
With all this emphasis on brushing, you may never have thought it was possible to brush your teeth too much. However, excessive tooth brushing, or overbrushing, is a real concern and can actually cause damage to your teeth and gums! Some warning signs to watch out for in your dental routine would be splayed toothbrush bristles, swollen gums – red or bleeding – after brushing, and gum recession. Let’s discuss some of the negative effects overbrushing can have on your oral health:
1. You can wear down your tooth enamel.
Tooth enamel, the hardest substance in your body, helps protect your teeth and fight tooth decay. Overbrushing can damage enamel, increasing your chance of developing cavities. Once enamel is gone, you can’t bring it back. This is why it is so important to utilize proper brushing techniques and not brush too hard – especially after eating acidic foods, as this can break down the enamel even further.
2. Your gums could begin to recede.
Brushing too often and too hard can cause your gums to start receding. Receding gums can lead to periodontal disease, cavities at the root of your tooth, and other complications that could require further dental treatments. This process can happen so gradually that you may not even notice, so always remember to brush gently and visit your dentist regularly so they can catch it early on.
3. Tooth Abrasion.
Excessive and rough brushing of your teeth can actually cause tooth abrasion, which is the scratching of divots into your teeth. Plaque is actually very soft and easy to remove, so there is no need to brush aggressively. If you have experienced tooth abrasion, try using toothpastes with fluoride in them to reduce sensitivity and the risk of decay. If the abrasion is too severe, your dentist may have to fill in the divets like they would a cavity.
4. Tooth Sensitivity.
Worn enamel and receding gums will eventually expose the sensitive root area of your teeth. This will lead to tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold foods and drinks.
We hope this information highlights the complications that overbrushing can cause so you can take preventative measures against it. We recommend brushing at least twice a day, or after every meal, for around two minutes. You might be wondering now what is the proper way to brush your teeth. Here are our guidelines for a proper brushing technique:
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
- Brush in a scrubbing, circular motion, avoiding a sawing motion.
- Apply only gentle pressure against your teeth and gums. Try holding your toothbrush in your fingertips rather than in a fist.
- Brush all angles of your tooth – front, back, and the flat chewing surfaces.
- Use the proper type of toothbrush. You’ll want a soft-bristled brush, and you will need to replace it every three to four months.
If you suspect you may be over brushing your teeth and still feel uncertain about the proper technique, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Simply Smiles today. We will give you all the education and tools you will need to maintain a healthy smile!
Sources:
https://www.beautifulsmiles.org/memphis-dentistry-blog/posts/can-overbrushing-hurt-my-teeth
https://www.fidleronthetooth.com/blog/overbrushing-your-teeth/
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-should-you-brush-your-teeth#toothbrush-type
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth