Overzealous brushing does more harm to your teeth than good. Therefore, if you’re brushing your teeth too hard trying to remove any stubborn stains off of your teeth, you’re not going about it the right way. Brushing your teeth regularly is essential for strong oral health, but in order to get the best results for your smile, there is a certain brushing technique you need to follow so your teeth and gums remain clean.
Overzealous brushing is also known as “tooth abrasion“. Abrasion means the process of scraping and wearing away. Some people believe the softer you brush, the worse it is for your teeth and gums. In fact, it is the polar opposite. Soft brushing with the right technique is more beneficial to your teeth and gums. Did you know that overzealous brushing is one of the main reasons for tooth damage?
The Proper Brushing Technique
How hard you brush your teeth isn’t important, but how you use your toothbrush using the proper brushing technique. Here are some tips to help you master the proper brushing technique:
- Use of a soft-bristled toothbrush because a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause gum damage and wear and tear on your teeth, exposing the underlying dentin and damaging your enamel
- With your soft-bristled toothbrush, place the head of your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the top of the gum line and the root of the teeth
- Gently move the toothbrush in a circular motion with short strokes several times against all contours of your teeth
- When it comes to the biting areas of your teeth, gently brush and up down the biting areas of your teeth
- Apply gently pressure when you feel the bristles touching your teeth and gums. Do not press hard and squash the bristles
- Repeat these steps for a minimum of two to three minutes at a time
Why Brushing Teeth Correctly Is Important
The bristles on your toothbrush play a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums clean. The bristles are designed to accumulate the bacteria in your mouth that builds from the foods you eat. Once the bristles become damaged, instead of collecting bacteria, it will spread the bacteria around your teeth, leading to dental plaque build-up and potential tooth decay.
It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months at a time. Ensure that you look after the bristles and wash them thoroughly after brushing so the bacteria collected is removed.
If you need further advice on how to brush your teeth for maximum results, check in with us at Sutherland Dental today for an appointment and explore Sutherland Dentistry at its best!
