Can You Brush Your Teeth Too Much?

Everything is best in moderation, including brushing your teeth. Oral hygiene diligence is important to a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile, but teeth brushers must be mindful of neither brush too often or aggressively. Overbrushing can lead to abrasion, which causes gums to recede and teeth to become sensitive.

Damage caused by overbrushing:

On the surface of the teeth is enamel, a protective layer of tissue (the hardest tissue in the body) that compromises our visible smile and all the way to the crown. Avoiding a cleaning routine of enamel can lead to plaque and disease, but brushing it all away can expose the teeth roots and nerve endings that are tucked beneath the gums.

Gum Recession

Brushing harshly, frequently or with a medium-hard bristle toothbrush thins the enamel tissue and pushes the gums away. As the gums recede, patients are at risk of periodontal disease and gingivitis. Additionally, root endings become exposed, causing painful sensitivity and increasing the risk of bacteria growth and infection.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth enamel collects residue that is otherwise harmful or painful to teeth tissue. Overbrushing wears away the enamel on the surface of the teeth, leaving the remaining tissues exposed and extremely sensitive to heat and cold.

Switch to a soft toothbrush

Unfortunately, those at the highest risk of damage caused by overbrushing are those with proactive oral care routines. If you think you might be an “overbrusher”, make your first change by switching to a soft bristle toothbrush. The bristle hardness does not affect the thoroughness of brushing.

Come into Doral Sedation & Family Dentistry to learn more about proper brushing techniques and to verify that you have not become an “overbrusher”. Reach out to our staff on go online to book an appointment today.