If you care about protecting your smile from cavities, chances are that you’re already in the habit of brushing at least twice a day. But while this is certainly an important practice for maintaining your oral health, you do need to be careful; brushing too hard could end up having more serious consequences than you realize. Your preventive dentist is here with a closer look at what overly aggressive brushing can lead to as well as the proper way to clean your smile.
What Can Happen If You Brush Too Hard?
One of the most notable effects of brushing too hard is that it can wear down your enamel faster than normal. This is a serious issue since damaged enamel can’t repair itself. Not only is worn-down enamel more susceptible to tooth decay, but it can also leave your teeth more sensitive than normal to hot and cold foods.
Furthermore, brushing too hard can damage the soft tissues around your teeth. As a result, you could experience gum recession that leaves the roots of your teeth exposed, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk for decay.
What are the Signs of Brushing Too Hard?
It’s important to be able to recognize the warning signs of overly aggressive brushing so that you can correct your habits. Some of the possible side effects of brushing too hard include:
- Bleeding of the gums.
- Experiencing discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.
- Teeth that look longer than they used to.
- Dull spots or notches on the teeth.
How Should You Brush Your Teeth?
To avoid brushing too hard, you should first make sure that you’ve chosen the right tools for the job. Always use a toothbrush that has soft bristles, and stock up on gentle, fluoride-based toothpaste with low abrasiveness.
It doesn’t take a lot of pressure to clean your teeth. As such, when you brush, try holding the toothbrush with just three fingers to reduce the amount of pressure that you’re putting on your smile. Be mindful of your technique as well; remember to brush back and forth using very short, tooth-wide strokes.
If you still have questions or concerns about the way you’re brushing your teeth, don’t forget to bring them up during your next checkup and cleaning. Your dentist can check for signs of overly aggressive brushing and let you know what improvements you can make to your oral hygiene routine.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley studied dentistry at Nova Southeastern University, and he currently holds membership with the Brevard County Dental Society as well as other dental organizations. He’s proud to offer patients of all ages high-quality preventive dentistry so that they can protect their smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Rowley at Rowley Family Dentistry in Melbourne, visit his website or call (321) 723-1772.