Brushing your teeth is vital to your overall health. Experts agree that brushing twice a day, for two minutes each session, is the best way to remove plaque, food and bacteria.

We know that teeth brushing is beneficial, but it is possible to brush too much? The short answer is yes, it is very possible to actually damage your teeth by over-brushing.

Risks of Brushing Too Much

Brushing too much, or brushing incorrectly, can negatively impact your smile in multiple ways:

Increased Sensitivity

Tooth enamel is the hard, outermost part of your teeth. This solid shell is considered to be the hardest part of the human body, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t susceptible to wear and tear.

Bacteria and food break down and create an acidic environment within the mouth, which isn’t good news for your teeth. Additionally, brushing too harshly, or too often, can be too abrasive for enamel. The enamel eventually wears away and nerve endings become exposed, creating sensitivity within the mouth.

Gum Recession

When over-brushing becomes the norm, you may notice your gum line receding. This exposes the softer tissue near the root of the tooth and creates sensitivity. Gum recession also makes teeth more susceptible to decay.

Prevent Over-brushing

The good news is that you can easily prevent over-brushing from occurring. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is a great way to keep your enamel intact and prevent sensitivity. It may be assumed that hard bristles are better for cleaning, but they actually make your teeth more prone to abrasion-related issues.

Speaking of abrasion, using an abrasive toothpaste can also be harmful to tooth health. The key is to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to help keep enamel strong.

Using the right technique when brushing your teeth is also important. If your toothbrush gets flattened and frayed quickly, it may be time to ease up and reconsider your brushing method.

Don’t forget that other habits, outside of brushing, can also damage your enamel. Biting your nails, holding pins in your mouth or opening bottles with your teeth can be detrimental to your oral health.

Are you ready to schedule your next dental appointment to keep your oral health in tip-top shape? Visit our website today to learn more about our dental services!

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