When it comes to cleaning your teeth, harder isn’t always better. In fact, overly frequent and aggressive brushing can lead to more oral health problems like gum recession, cavities, and premature enamel wear.
Here are signs that you’ve been brushing too hard
1. Your toothbrush’s bristles are worn out
The most common cause of dental abrasion is due to toothbrush abrasion. Many people brush their teeth in the wrong way by either brushing too hard or they simply use hard-bristled toothbrushes which almost always damage their teeth. If you notice your new toothbrush looking worn out only after a few weeks of use, then it probably is because you’re brushing your teeth too forcefully with it. Remember that toothbrush’s need to be replaced every 3-4 months.
2. Your gum line is receding
Notice a change in your gum line? Vigorous brushing over a long period of time can cause gums to recede, exposing the darker, underlying root surfaces of your teeth. One of the easiest ways to check for receding gums is to look out for changing appearances, like teeth that appear longer, or yellower near the gum tissue.
3. Your teeth near the gums don’t appear bright or shiny
If your teeth appear a bit darker under your gums, then it is because they aren’t protected by the enamel layer any longer. So, when your gums recede and the bottom layer of your teeth become visible, they appear to be more yellow, or darker in color. The absence of the enamel layer exposes them to all kinds of bacteria and germs. This problem compromises the entire health of your teeth.
4. Gums bleed when you brush
Bleeding gums are one of the most common signs of aggressive brushing and should not be ignored. It’s not normal for your gums to bleed every time you brush, and could also be an indicator of gum disease and poor overall dental health.
5. Your teeth become extra sensitive
Just like your receding gums, your teeth can become extra sensitive as well, especially once the enamel is brushed away. The reason is because the nerves of the roots of your teeth are left exposed and unprotected. This becomes apparent when you start finding it really hard to drink very hot or very cold water or drinks, or even bite hard food. In this case, you should visit a dentist and start brushing your teeth in a softer way.
Good oral care begins with everyday habits
8 dental care tips to help you achieve better oral health:
– Brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night before you sleep. Be mindful not to rush and spend at least two minutes each time brushing your teeth and gums. You may play a two-minute song or set the timer on your phone to help you keep track.
– Wait at least 30-60 minutes after a meal to brush your teeth. Food increases acidity in your mouth and weakens the enamel. Brushing immediately after eating can lead to faster wear-and-tear of the teeth. If you can’t avoid it, rinse your mouth with water before brushing.
– Spit, don’t rinse away the toothpaste in your mouth after brushing. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush with, and simply spit it out to allow the fluoride to continue strengthening the teeth against cavities². If you prefer to rinse your mouth with water after brushing your teeth, follow up with fluoride mouthwash.
– Floss daily to remove food debris, plaque and bacteria in between your teeth. Keep in mind to floss before you brush, so that particles released during flossing are removed by the brushing action.
– Visit a dentist twice a year to address any dental problems early, especially if you have an existing condition, such as diabetes, that increases your risk of oral health issues1. Also, you can’t remove tartar with aggressive brushing, so leave the deep cleaning to the professionals.
Use the proper brushing technique.
– To make sure you’re using a gentle grip, try holding your toothbrush like a pen.
– Place your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums, so the bristles can reach between teeth and underneath your gum line to remove plaque.
– Brush gently in a short, vertical, or circular motion. Avoid brushing horizontally across your gum line; brush instead at an angle to your teeth, to prevent gum damage.
– Clean the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget to also brush the surface of your tongue!
Choose a suitable toothbrush
– Use a soft-bristled toothbrush which is gentle on the gums. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or when it frays.
– If you wear braces, consider getting a special orthodontic toothbrush that comes with V-shaped bristles. It’s designed to clean around the wires and braces.
– Children are advised to use a child-sized toothbrush, so it fits comfortably in their mouth and hand. Pick one with a thicker handle and a rubber grip that enables sturdier control.
– Electric toothbrushes are especially useful for people who find the motion of using manual toothbrushes difficult. Patients living with Parkinson’s, stroke or even arthritis, may have difficulty with using their hands and can find electric toothbrushes helpful.
References: ntuchealth.sg
