Keeping a consistent schedule for brushing your teeth has long been known as a vital exercise to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.  However, brushing too much can have the opposite effect.  Over brushing can cause gum recession and sensitive teeth over time.

Aggressive brushing can damage the gums and expose the root area.  Along with discomfort, gum recession can lead to subsequent dental problems such as periodontal disease and cavities on the roots of the teeth.  Those who are most at risk for over brushing are those who are particularly concerned with oral health.

Proper brushing technique

To prevent damage from overbrushing, remember that proper brushing technique and reaching all of the areas on your teeth make the biggest difference in cleaning, not how hard you brush.

-Soft bristled toothbrushes will help prevent damage to the gums.

-Move your toothbrush with a scrubbing motion several times in every spot.  Do not use a side to side sawing motion.

-If your toothbrush’s bristles start to flatten or bend after your brush, that is a sign that you are brushing too hard.  You should apply enough pressure to feel the bristles on your gums, but not any harder than that.

Evaluate your brushing

Remember that overbrushing is completely preventable by you.  Make an effort to maintain healthy brushing habits and use the status of your toothbrush bristles as an indicator that you may be brushing too hard.  Taking these steps will help prevent gum recession, and subsequently, other issues such as periodontal disease.

To learn more about gum recession, please contact our Columbus, Ohio office.