Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Tooth Brushing? Learn Why You Shouldn’t Brush So Hard

Everyone knows that they need to brush their teeth. Many people feel that they should be brushing their teeth more often. In fact, you may be surprised to know that there can be essentially too much of a good thing. Now, not so fast – that doesn’t mean you’re brushing too often. A person would have to brush 100 times a day to be brushing too often, but there is an overzealous tooth brushing problem that many people are guilty of.

Read on to learn more about why you shouldn’t brush your teeth hard. Known as overbrushing, if you brush too hard you could be adding health risk to your teeth. Learn more and then reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment for a cleaning and exam.

Brushing too hard can hurt the enamel on your teeth

Brushing harder doesn’t mean brushing better. In fact, it can often mean brushing worse. If you use too much force and brush too hard, you could end up with what’s known as toothbrush abrasion. The biggest risk of this issue is that you could be wearing away your enamel. Remember that the purpose of enamel is to act as a layer of protection that prevents tooth decay. It’s an essential part of your teeth that you don’t want to weaken.

Brushing too hard can hurt your gums

Your teeth may be hard but your gums are made of soft tissue. If you brush too hard, you could end up damaging your gums. This can lead them to recede, which essentially means that the gums move away from your teeth’s roots. This then leads to extra space, which we know as pockets, which are bacteria’s perfect breeding ground. The end result of this type of gum damage is often gum disease.

You may be brushing too hard and not even know it

If you’re reading this and wondering if you’re brushing too hard then there are two main things you can do. First, make an appointment for a dental exam and cleaning. We can review your oral health habits and let you know how you can improve them. Second, keep a look out for any of the following warning signs.

• Enamel waring down
• Cavities below the roots of your teeth
• Receding gums

How to brush properly

We’ve talked about how not to brush your teeth. Now let’s discuss the ways you should brush them. First, brush the surface of your teeth and your gum lines. Do not do this aggressively. For most people, around two minutes is long enough.

Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles because hard bristles can have the same effects of overbrushing. You should also angle your toothbrush about 45% to your gum line. Keep your strokes short and work to complete a scrubbing motion.

If you have any questions about how to properly brush your teeth please reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for assistance.