Brushing your teeth every day is the best way to keep them healthy and prevent tooth decay. However, brushing too hard or with a toothbrush that is too stiff can actually do harm and increase your risk of decay, wear and tear, and tooth loss. If you’re concerned about your brushing technique or the toothbrush you’re using, have a talk with your dentist to fine-tune your approach.
Your Everyday Dental Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy is the best way to ensure you’ll keep your teeth well into your future. The basics of dental hygiene are brushing and flossing. To be sure you’re using an appropriate toothbrush, and that your flossing technique is efficient, consult with your dentist.
Brushing too hard or with a toothbrush that is too stiff can actually do harm and increase your risk of decay, wear and tear, and tooth loss.
For most people, a soft or medium toothbrush is the best type of brush to keep your teeth clean and free of food debris. By removing excess food from your teeth, you reduce the number of bacteria that can build up, creating plaque and tartar. These highly acidic by-products of bacterial digestion cling to the teeth and eat through the enamel, creating cavities, or dental caries.
Flossing removes additional food particles from between the teeth and also massage and stimulate the gums, helping them stay healthy.
Effects of Overbrushing
Brushing too much, too vigorously, or with a toothbrush that is too stiff, can remove not only plaque and tartar, but also the upper layers of your enamel. Rather than keeping your teeth healthy and clean, this can instead damage your teeth and increase the likelihood of decay. If your enamel is damaged severely enough, you might require restorations due to increased sensitivity. Your teeth also often become discolored when your enamel becomes damaged or too thin.
If you have any concerns about your toothbrush or your brushing methods, the best solution is to discuss them with your dentist. She can supply an appropriate toothbrush and evaluate your technique to ensure you have the best chance of keeping your teeth healthy and white for many years to come.
Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team by calling 817-465-0355 today.
