Over-brushing Your Teeth: More Isn’t Better

Following an excellent oral healthcare routine is always beneficial. But going overboard—being too excellent—is not beneficial. It’s possible to brush to the point where you harm your teeth and gums.

People seeking exceptional quality dental care needn’t look further than the office of Lee Dental & Facial. We provide a comprehensive range of advanced dental services—from the essentials in preventive care to the foremost emergency, restorative and cosmetic treatments.

Over-brushing means that you brush more than three times a day and that your brushing methods are too aggressive. Dental abrasion, tooth sensitivity and gum recession are three main drawbacks to over-brushing.

Dental abrasion means you’re brushing compulsively or with too much force. Your enthusiasm is wearing away tooth enamel, and your continuing gusto could lead to erosion beyond the enamel. Signs of abrasion show up near the gumline as shiny patches and brown or yellow areas. Notching (a V-shaped indentation) at the gumline is another indication. Notching frequently develops in the gums on the opposite side of the predominant hand because the hand’s position lets the toothbrush apply excessive pressure.

Teeth can become sensitive when the level of enamel abrasion gets close to or reaches the nerve endings of the dentin. Dentin is the middle layer (between the enamel and the pulp) of the tooth and makes up the majority of the tooth’s structure. The hypersensitivity can cause pain or irritation when you consume food and beverages that are sweet, sour, hot or cold.

Receding gums can also lead to oral health problems when cementum becomes exposed. Cementum is a connective tissue along a tooth’s root; its fibers support the tooth in the jawbone. Cementum is softer than enamel, so it’s more vulnerable to decay.

If you’re an over-brusher, a dentist will notice the signs during an exam and tell you what you’re doing wrong. If you think you’re becoming an over-brusher, a dentist can tell you how to correct what you think you’re doing wrong.

From cleanings and cavities to crowns and cosmetic procedures, the office of Lee Dental & Facial employs the most advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities to determine the precise course of care and provide the best solutions. To schedule an appointment, please call us today.