The Risks of Overbrushing Your Teeth
At Teitler Family Dental Care, we emphasize the importance of good oral hygiene practices. Brushing your teeth twice a day is a great habit, and some people even brush after meals to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. However, you might wonder, “Can you brush your teeth too much?” The answer is yes—overbrushing can lead to several dental issues.
What is Overbrushing?
Overbrushing refers to both the frequency and the intensity of brushing. If you brush too vigorously or too often, you risk dental abrasion, tooth sensitivity, and gum recession.
Dental Abrasion
According to the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, dental abrasion occurs when tooth structure is worn away by mechanical forces from a foreign object, such as a toothbrush. Overenthusiastic brushing can wear down tooth enamel and, eventually, the softer dentin and cementum. Signs of abrasion include shiny, yellow, or brown spots near the gum line and wedge-shaped indentations.
Tooth Sensitivity
When enamel is worn away, the nerve endings in the dentin layer become exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity. This can cause discomfort or pain when your teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or sour stimuli or even when brushing.
Gum Recession
Aggressive brushing can also cause your gums to recede, exposing the softer cementum of the root. This exposed area is more prone to wear, notching, sensitivity, and decay.
Protecting Your Teeth from Overbrushing
If not addressed, dental abrasion and gum recession can lead to cavities and even tooth loss. Depending on the severity, your dentist may recommend treatments to cover the exposed dentin and protect your teeth.
Treatments may include:
- Fluoride Varnish: Strengthens the tooth’s surface.
- Bonding: Applies a tooth-colored filling over the abraded area.
- Veneers: Covers the exposed area for added protection.
- Gum Grafting: Replaces missing gum tissue and protects exposed cementum.
Proper Brushing Techniques and Tools
Preventing overbrushing is simple when you use the correct techniques and tools:
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Stiff bristles increase the risk of abrasion and gum recession.
- Choose the Right Toothpaste: Avoid toothpaste with high abrasive agents. Opt for ones containing calcium and fluoride to strengthen enamel.
- Gentle Brushing Technique: Use light pressure. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line and brush in a soft circular motion.
- Wait After Eating: Brush at least 60 minutes after eating, especially after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Meanwhile, drink water or chew sugarless gum to freshen your breath.
- Avoid Abrasive Habits: Avoid using your teeth to open bottles, handling nails or pins with your mouth, or biting your fingernails. Lip or tongue piercings can also wear away enamel.
Achieve a Healthy Smile with Teitler Family Dental Care
Overbrushing won’t help you achieve a perfect smile, but using the right tools and techniques will. For clean teeth and a healthy mouth, practice gentle yet thorough brushing. If you have any concerns about your oral hygiene routine, don’t hesitate to contact Teitler Family Dental Care. We’re here to help you maintain optimal dental health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with your trusted Woodbine MD dentist. Your smile is our priority!