Many are aware of how important it is to frequently brush your teeth as part of good oral hygiene. It gets rid of plaque, protects your teeth, and keeps your breath fresh. You may even feel the need to brush every time after eating. Unfortunately, it is highly likely to overbrush your teeth.
Overbrushing refers to both “how often” and “how hard” you brush. According to dentists, brushing your teeth twice daily for 2 minutes, preferably before you start your day and before you go to bed, is sufficient to maintain the health of your teeth. If you eat food that stays in between your teeth or has a strong aftertaste, brushing 3 times is recommended. However, compulsive and/or aggressive brushing can cause gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and dental abrasion, which can all be detrimental to your oral health.
Signs of Overbrushing
How do you know if you are overbrushing your teeth? Here are the signs:
- Enamel Erosion
Excessive and vigorous tooth brushing can wear down the teeth’s enamel over time. Another problem that can compromise the enamel is vigorous brushing shortly after a meal or consuming acidic beverages. Tooth sensitivity and discolouration are effects of eroded enamel
- Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is another indicator that you are brushing too vigorously or frequently. Enamel covers and protects your teeth. Overbrushing the teeth’s enamel causes it to erode more quickly than usual, exposing the dentin and its nerve endings.
Over time, this could make brushing uncomfortable. If you have sensitive teeth, review your brushing technique and switch to a toothbrush with soft bristles. Abrasive toothpaste, such as whitening toothpaste, should also be avoided
- Gum Recession
In addition to causing tooth abrasion and sensitivity, overbrushing your teeth may cause receding gums. Cementum, a soft, calcified substance that protects the tooth root, may become visible due to gum recession, and it may be susceptible to deterioration when exposed. Additionally, it is readily worn down and nicked, which can be painful and sensitive. Remember that receding gums will never regrow to their former size. Periodontal surgery could be required in specific circumstances
- Bleeding Gums
You harm your gums by pressing too firmly or brushing too vigorously. If you notice a streak of blood every time you spit, this could be the reason.
When you brush too frequently and do not give the gums a chance to recover, the thinnest layer of gum covering the tooth can get irritated and damaged, which often causes your gums to bleed. If you have dental implants, you might have harmed the delicate gum tissue and exposed the abutment of the implant
- Orthodontic Problems
Many people who undergo orthodontic treatment develop dental paranoia as a result.
While it is true that dental implants and braces require extra maintenance to stay healthy, overbrushing areas where sensitive work has been done can result in even more harm. Avoid putting your braces out of alignment, damaging dental bridges, or wearing out dental appliances due to overbrushing. Doing so will only result in extra dental appointments and could potentially make future procedures more difficult.
How to Avoid Overbrushing
We all strive for a white, healthy smile, which is why we take good care of our mouth, teeth, and gums. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you brush your teeth in order to maintain excellent oral health
- Use the Right Toothbrush
Some individuals think that the harder you brush and the stiffer the brush you use, the better it is in cleaning your teeth. In reality, it is the complete opposite. Your teeth and gums will benefit more from soft brushing when done correctly. Stiff bristles can only increase your chances of dental abrasions due to overzealous brushing
- Replace Your Brush
Change your toothbrush every 3 months or as soon as the bristles begin to tear. Bristle edges that are worn down can scrape areas of the teeth that should not be brushed. Fraying on your toothbrush after only a month of use can indicate that you were brushing too hard. It is also important to select a toothbrush that has been endorsed by the experts.
- Go Softly on Plaque
Plaque is a thin, sticky film or bacterial clump that collects on the surface of teeth. Plaque can eventually transform into tartar, a tougher, calcified type of bacteria that can result in cavities. Vigorous brushing is not necessary to effectively remove plaque. To get rid of all dangerous bacteria, use gentle, small circular motions.
- Brush Properly
Proper brushing techniques can help protect your teeth from decay and other oral diseases. Make sure to gently brush all the surfaces of your teeth and position the head of your toothbrush so that the bristles are at a 45° angle to the gum line. Also, always apply sufficient pressure while cleaning your teeth
- Get a Regular Dental Checkup
Visits to your family dentist every 6 months or as recommended are a great way to maintain good dental health and avoid problems brought on by overbrushing.
How to Properly Brush
Upon reaching the end of this article, you must be wondering how to properly brush your teeth and avoid overbrushing.
The proper technique for brushing your teeth helps prevent overbrushing. To prevent overbrushing, tilt your toothbrush at a 45° angle along your gum line. Every so often, alternate between a back-and-forth motion over each tooth and a concentric circular motion. Repeat on the top (chewing surface) and inside surface of each tooth. Remember to take care of your back teeth. To prevent tooth decay and cavities, you must brush these areas, even though they can be difficult to access. Brush your tongue as well to get rid of bad breath and the bacteria that cause it.
Always remember that excessive brushing will not produce your desired outcomes. To consistently attain a healthy mouth and efficiently clean your teeth, use the right tools (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash) and proper brushing techniques.
Looking for a family dentist in Brampton? Here at Springdale Dental Centre, your family’s oral health is our top priority. We have experience in dealing with a variety of oral health problems and can provide advice and treatments that fit your needs. To book an appointment call us today at (905) 458-1212 or schedule online.
