Some dental customers approach their teeth with the same vigor as if they were polishing an old floor—that is, they work them much too hard! Too-hard brushing is perhaps the most frequent error patients make in their dental care regimen, and it may be harmful to the gums and teeth if not addressed immediately.

What kinds of problems can be caused by brushing too hard?

• Gums that are receding
• Bone loss in the area of the teeth
• Teeth loss is a common occurrence.
• Tooth sensitivity, particularly to extremes of heat and cold
• Enamel that has become brittle

Overbrushing may cause your gums to recede and expose the neck of your teeth, which can cause pain and discomfort. Due to the fact that this portion of the tooth is not covered by hard enamel like the rest of the tooth, the soft inner layer, known as dentin, is exposed on this side. Dentin is very sensitive to heat and cold, and it is also significantly more prone to bacterial deterioration than other tissues. When the gums recede as a result of incorrect brushing, the condition is typically permanent.

Using the appropriate technique to clean your teeth

So you're already aware that you should wash your teeth twice a day, so why not do it correctly? First and foremost, unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Marianne Cohan, you should always brush using a soft bristled brush rather than a medium or hard bristled brush. In most cases, cleaning your teeth twice a day for two minutes is sufficient, unless you have braces or certain oral health conditions.

When you brush your teeth and gums, the primary goal is to eliminate plaque from your teeth and gums. Plaque is essentially a soft substance that is formed by the accumulation of germs, saliva, and food waste. It is not necessary to brush vigorously in order to eliminate plaque; instead, be sure to aim your toothbrush towards the gum line (where plaque tends to accumulate) and brush in tiny circular strokes, never in back and forth motions.

It's also a good idea to use a gentle touch while holding your toothbrush. People have a tendency to brush harder when they grip their toothbrush more tightly.

Are there any queries you still have concerning correct teeth brushing technique or gum health? Inquire with any member of our staff or Dr. Marianne Cohan on your next visit to our Las Vegas office near you; we'll be pleased to assist you!

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