Is It Possible to Brush Your Teeth Too Hard?

You’ve probably been told your whole life that you need to brush your teeth every single day with no exceptions – and this is true! However, did you know that it’s possible to brush your teeth too hard? This habit, known as overbrushing, can actually have some severe implications for your dental hygiene, and it’s in your best interest to confirm that you’re brushing your teeth correctly and not causing any needless harm. Here’s a closer look at overbrushing, along with some useful tips that can help you to properly tend to your teeth.

Why Is Overbrushing Harmful?

Sometimes it’s difficult to determine whether you’re brushing too hard – admittedly, many of us are on autopilot when we brush our teeth. In fact, according to the Wall Street Journal, dentists estimate between 10% and 20% of the population have harmed their smiles due to overbrushing!

However, being mindful of how much pressure you’re placing is important; vigorous brushing can wear down the enamel on the teeth and push back the gums, exposing the sensitive root areas. Receding gums can also lead to other problems including periodontal disease, as well as cavities on the roots that require complex treatment.

Some obvious signs of overbrushing tend to include:

• You’ve noticed your gums are receding.
• Your teeth feel more sensitive than usual.
• Your teeth aren’t as bright near your gums.
• Your toothbrush looks beat up and flat with frayed bristles.

Tips for Brushing Your Teeth Properly

It will require some mindfulness, but it’s possible to change your brushing habits and stop yourself from overbrushing your teeth. Consider the following:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush – Choose one with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval and replace it every three months, or sooner if the bristles are beginning to fray or you’ve recently been sick. Make sure the size and shape of the brush also fit your mouth well.
• Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums – This technique helps ensure that the bristles can reach and clean underneath your gumline.
• Use the correct motion – Use short, tooth-wide strokes to clean the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. To clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and use up-and-down strokes.
• Go slowly and gently – Brushing your teeth isn’t a race or competition, so there’s no reason to rush through the process. Dentists across the world recommend brushing your teeth for two full minutes, twice a day.

If you suspect that you’re harming your teeth and gums due to overbrushing, you shouldn’t hesitate to speak with your dentist! They can also offer guidance to help you curb the habit and ensure that you aren’t causing needless harm to your pearly whites.

About the Author

Under the leadership of Dr. Jason Aptaker, the team at Shore Points General & Implant Dentistry has proudly served patients in the Manasquan area for several years, offering a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and various other services. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the practice to set up an appointment, please feel free to reach out online or by phone for assistance. Telephone: (732) 223-9199.