Can You Brush Your Teeth Too Hard?

Brushing your teeth on a daily basis is one of the best ways to ensure that you have good oral hygiene. Doing so in conjunction with flossing and regular visits to the dentist make up the best oral care routine. However, is it possible that you can brush your teeth too hard? In this article we explore the answer to this question.

The Dangers Of Brushing Too Hard

Using a hard toothbrush that is made up of stiff bristles can wear down your teeth as well as your gums. Brushing hard using a hard toothbrush can worsen the situation and result in a wide range of dental problems like enamel wear and the recession of the gums. Both of these conditions are likely to cause tooth sensitivity.

Keep in mind that the enamel of your teeth is the hardest material in the human body. Aggressive brushing can however erode it over a long period, and the enamel does not have the ability to heal itself. This will open you up to getting cavities. The recession of gums will change the appearance of your smile. In addition, if the recession persists for long, the roots of your teeth can be compromised as they will become exposed. The roots are more sensitive and may easily decay compared to the other parts of the teeth, since they do not have the protection offered by the enamel.

If you notice that the bristles on your toothbrush wear down quickly, or that your gums are sore after brushing, then it may be time to change your brushing technique. Use a soft toothbrush instead to brush your teeth. It can also be beneficial to brush using your less dominant hand as you will apply less pressure while brushing. If you use an electric toothbrush, then you should not use a lot of pressure, as you just have to ensure that the toothbrush is in contact with your teeth. For more tips on how you can avoid brushing too hard or any other dental concern, contact us today!
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