Can Overbrushing Hurt Your Gums?

Nearly as awful as not brushing at all is brushing too vigorously. Too much pressure when brushing your teeth can wear down the enamel, harm your gums, and make your teeth too sensitive. Additionally, according to an expert on periodontal dentistry in Medford, using a toothbrush with hard bristles can harm your gums. Up to 20% of Americans have worn down teeth from brushing too vigorously.

Effects of Excessive Brushing and Tips to Avoid It

Detrimental Effects of Excessive Tooth Brushing

Regular brushing is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but dental professionals caution against overdoing it. Brushing too hard can lead to toothbrush abrasion, which may later on result in sensitive teeth and receding gums.

The outer coating of your teeth may become damaged if you brush them too vigorously. Your teeth become less protected when the enamel is lost, making them more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. In addition, vigorous brushing harms delicate gum tissue and may eventually cause it to recede, exposing delicate tooth roots and making them susceptible to decay and periodontal disease.

Those who brush excessively with medium- or hard-bristled toothbrushes run the greatest risk of damaging their teeth or gums. Here are some telltale indicators that you are overdoing your brushing.

• Swollen or red gums after you brush your teeth
• Pale gums
• Gum recession
• Brush bristles that are spread out

How to Brush Effectively

You should apply the appropriate amount of pressure when cleaning your teeth—neither too much nor too little. Likewise, you should spend two to three minutes brushing your teeth.   

Limiting your daily brushing to three times per day, specifically after every meal, is also important. Use a gentle toothbrush to your gums at a 45-degree angle, and slide it to your teeth in a back-and-forth motion.

The bristles of your toothbrush should only meet your gums when necessary.

Ask a Periodontal Expert in Medford

Always remember that while brushing, you should be thorough but not harsh. Schedule an appointment with us for more information!