3 Adverse Effects of Excessive Brushing on Enamel and Gums
Excessive brushing or overbrushing removes the teeth’ outer portion, called the enamel. It can also remove dentin, which is a thin layer located just behind the enamel. There are times when people brush with a heavy hand or use brushes that have hard bristles. Both of these can lead to several problems in the mouth. And while these problems can be fixed, it is better to avoid them in the first place.
Many people today are convinced that they need to apply a lot of pressure to get their teeth clean. There are also those who use hard-bristled brushes, believing that these can rid the teeth of bacteria better. Worn-out toothbrushes come with bristles that appear pushed back or flattened which can be a sign of excessive brushing. The perceived benefits of excessive brushing are short-lived because teeth will start to experience many problems afterward.
Along with dentin and enamel erosion, people also notice that they seem to experience a sudden increase in tooth sensitivity. This happens because the dentin of the teeth becomes exposed, and will slowly start to erode. Dentin comes with tubules that are connected to the nerves of the tooth, so anything that is hot, cold, sour, or sweet can cause pain. Here are the top three issues associated with excessive brushing.
- Tooth Loss – Aggressive brushing can lead to tooth decay as the enamel is already eroded. This will eventually lead to tooth loss when left untreated. Tooth loss can progress to gingivitis and loss of bone mass in the jaw.
- Gum Recession – When you apply too much pressure on your tooth when brushing, the gum line can recede from the teeth, leading to the introduction of plaque and bacteria into the gums and eventually to the bloodstream. This increases the risk of periodontitis and gingivitis and can lead to heart disease and a host of health problems.
- Additional Dental Work – It is essential to visit your dentist twice a year for maintenance work. However, excessive brushing can greatly harm your teeth which you could have easily avoided.
Proper brushing can make a big difference in your oral health. Do not put too much pressure when you brush, and use a toothbrush that has soft bristles. As you brush, do so in circular motions, inverting the brush at a 45-degree angle to properly clean the area between the teeth and the gums. Do not brush your teeth immediately after drinking or eating because this is at the time that the enamel is at its weakest; wait 30 minutes before doing so.
Do you feel some tooth sensitivity or any other signs that indicate that you might have dentin or enamel erosion? Schedule an appointment with a reputable dentist in your area now. Use toothpaste that will help with the sensitivity and avoid food and drinks that cause pain.
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