Oral hygiene is fundamental to maintaining overall health and freshness. One of the most crucial aspects of tooth brushing, however, is the correct technique to avoid harming the gums. Although brushing is generally considered harmless, an excessive or too forceful technique can lead to serious gum issues.
How hard should you brush your teeth?
For many, brushing twice a day is ideal, ensuring sufficient cleaning without causing harm to the gums. It is important to brush in a manner that is gentle yet thorough. Some people brush too hard in an attempt to "kill" all the bacteria in their mouths. This is a common misconception, as the mouth is home to thousands of microorganisms that play a vital role in our health. While brushing does help to reduce the population of harmful bacteria, overbrushing can cause damage to the gums.
Causes of brushing too hard
While brushing too hard might seem counterintuitive, certain behaviors can contribute to this mistake. Here are several common reasons.
Worn toothbrush
Toothbrushes wearing down quickly can result in excessive force during brushing. The bristles may also be frayed, making it difficult to control the brush and applying unnecessary pressure.
Improper technique
Using the wrong toothbrush is a common culprit. Toothbrushes with hard bristles may inadvertently cause injury to the gums during brushing.
Infection
After a dental procedure, the area around the gums may become inflamed, and bacteria may accumulate. If not managed, brushing too hard may exacerbate this inflammation and potentially cause the gums to recede.
High sugar intake
A diet high in sugar can promote the growth of bacteria. Frequent eating sugary foods can leave a sticky film on the teeth, creating the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria growth. Overbrushing in an attempt to remove this buildup can be misdirected.
Consequences of brushing too hard
While brushing too hard may seem like a good way to achieve a sparkling smile, the truth is a variety of problems can arise from this overly aggressive approach. The following are some of the potential adverse effects.
Gum recession and exposure
Brushing too hard can cause the gums to recede, leading to exposed tender roots. This exposes the sensitive areas of the teeth, which are likely more prone to damage, decay, and sensitivity.
Enamel erosion
Tooth enamel is the natural protective layer that covers the teeth. However, excessive brushing can wear away this enamel, revealing the yellowish layer of the dental papilla (dentin) beneath the enamelled surface, causing the teeth to look older and feel rough.
Tooth sensitivity
As the enamel is worn away, the underlying dentine becomes exposed, making the teeth more sensitive to temperature changes, sweet or acidic foods, and even cold drinks.
Poor oral hygiene and caries
Brushing too hard may lead to poor oral hygiene practices if it results in sore or tender gums that are more difficult to clean effectively. This, coupled with the development of caries, is a recipe for oral infection and pain.
Loss of teeth
If gum recession progresses far enough, it may result in tooth loss if the roots become too vulnerable to decay or damage.
How to prevent brushing too hard?
To avoid brushing too hard, it's important to be mindful of your brush's condition and use proper brushing techniques:
Choice of toothbrush
Ensure you're using a toothbrush with soft bristles and appropriate size that fits your mouth well. You can opt for manual or electric toothbrushes, just make sure they're not too hard-bristled.
Use the right technique
When brushing your teeth, make sure to use a soft toothbrush with a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush in a circular motion, making sure the bristles reach the base of your gums. Don't press too hard, instead, use short, tooth-wide strokes to clean your teeth.
Regular check-ups
Professional cleanings and check-ups can help identify instances of brushing too hard and provide feedback on techniques that should be adopted for optimal oral care.
Visit the dentist
If you notice your gums are consistently sore after brushing, or if they bleed easily, it may be time to visit a dentist. Your dentist can assess the situation and provide personalized advice on brushing and flossing techniques that will benefit your long-term oral health.
##Brushing your teeth is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. However, it is critical to strike a balance between eliminating plaque and avoiding harm to the gums. Brushing gently and using the appropriate toothbrush will help ensure that your teeth are clean and healthy without leading to gum recession or other complications.
