Brushing is an essential part of good oral health. However, to remove the plaque, bacteria, and debris from your mouth you must brush your teeth correctly. At Medical Arts Dentistry, in Georgia, many of our patients believe that brushing vigorously and multiple times throughout the day leads to cleaner teeth. However, contrary to popular belief, brushing your teeth over-aggressively and brushing multiple times a day for more than 2 minutes can deteriorate your oral health. Through this guide, we will explain how overbrushing affects your oral health.
How Does Brushing Too Hard Lead To Gum Recession?
Brushing improperly leads to your gumline receding from the pressure. Gum recession is a form of gum disease that causes your gums to break away from your teeth. If the gums shrink too far back then your teeth roots will be exposed leaving your teeth more vulnerable to periodontal disease and decay that will result in holes in your mouth called cavities. Gum recession happens to anyone but it is most common in people over 65. You are more likely to have your gumline affected for the following reasons:
- Had braces or other orthodontic treatment
- Your family history
- Teeth trauma
Receding gums can not grow back so using gentle pressure when brushing your teeth is essential.
Consider That Over-vigorous Brushing Causes Sensitivity In Your Mouth
When you overbrush the tooth enamel disintegrates and the roots of your teeth become exposed leading to tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity may cause you to feel discomfort or pain to eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. You can even feel pain when you brush your teeth. You can reduce your pain and discomfort with the following remedies at home:
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
- Mouthwash for sensitive teeth
- Rinse with salt and water
- Honey and warm water rinse
If you need further recommendations visit one of our dental offices. If your tooth sensitivity is prolonged, you should be treated right away because it is a sign that your oral health is jeopardized.
What Are Some Signs You Are Overbrushing?
If you have any of the following signs you are brushing your teeth too hard or for too long:
- damage to your toothbrush
- swollen or red gums after brushing
- bleeding or sensitive gums
- dull teeth
How Can I Prevent Overbrushing?
You can take the following steps to prevent overbrushing:
1. The best choice to brush your teeth is using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Medium to Hard bristles do not clean your teeth better but rather harm your teeth.
2. Use an electric toothbrush to ensure you use adequate pressure for the correct amount of time.
3. If you are using a manual toothbrush do not rush and ensure you brush for 2 minutes instead of brushing at a fast speed or for too long.
What Treatment Option Is Right For Me?
If your overly hard brushing has already impacted your oral health, at Medical Arts Dentistry we have a variety of treatments available for a receding gumline, tooth sensitivity, tooth abrasion, and even tooth loss. Depending on the level of tooth sensitivity, our dentists usually recommend:
- Fluoride treatment
- Mouthguards
- Dental fillings
- Root Canals
- Crowns
If you already have missing teeth due to overly hard brushing our team can replace your teeth with modern dental solutions such as:
- Fixed and partial dentures
- Dental Bridges
If you are seeking any of these dental treatments in the Georgetown or Savannah, GA areas, consider Medical Arts Dentistry. Medical Arts Dentistry is a full-service dentistry offering a wide range of dental services including cosmetic and family dentistry. Call 912-921-0401 for our Georgetown location or 912-355-0605 for our Savannah location today.