Are You Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard?

There is such a thing as a proper technique when it comes to brushing your teeth. According to dentists from wheeling, WV, brushing too vigorously or using the improper toothbrush can harm your teeth and gums, causing issues including enamel wear and receding gums, which can in turn cause tooth sensitivity.

People have a tendency to brush their teeth vigorously because they believe this is the only way to make them feel clean and appear whiter, according to Dr. Romo. That’s counterproductive since it not only causes gum recession but also wears down the pearly, white enamel on your teeth, giving them a yellower and darker appearance.

Unsure whether you are brushing too vigorously? Consider your toothbrush. It ought to still look brand new if you’ve only used it for three months or less. In the words of Romo, “If it appears flat and beat-up, you’re brushing much too hard.”

How to Brush Your Teeth Correctly

Romo thinks you can improve your hard-brushing habits, but it will take some focus. By using these good brushing techniques, you can reduce tooth sensitivity and guard against harm to your teeth and gums.

Use a toothbrush with gentle bristles. Replace it every three to four months, or sooner if it frays, advises the American Dental Association (ADA), and choose one with the ADA seal. The ADA continues, “Your toothbrush should be the right size and form for your mouth so you can easily reach all areas.”

Gently back and forth-move the brush. The ADA advises using quick, tooth-wide strokes to clean the chewing, inner, and exterior surfaces of the teeth. Use an up-and-down motion while tilting your brush vertically to clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth. If you’re brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush, don’t force it against your teeth; instead, let it do the work. Holding your toothbrush in your non-dominant hand will help you ensure that you are utilizing a gentle grip.

Speed up. According to the ADA, dentists advise that you wash your teeth twice a day for two full minutes to avoid plaque and cavities. It can seem like an eternity to those who have never tried it. You truly don’t.

Select the Best Toothpaste (and Floss)

The ADA recommends using fluoride toothpaste to further aid in cavity prevention. Make sure to select toothpaste that bears the ADA seal, indicating that it has undergone testing and been found to have adequate fluoride to safeguard your teeth.You can get tooth Extraction and Implant Timeline from dentists. The website of the ADA has options.

The ADA also suggests the following guidelines to maintain a clean, healthy mouth:

  • To freshen your breath and eradicate bacteria, brush your tongue.
  • To get rid of microorganisms that can cause dental decay between the teeth, where your toothbrush can’t, floss once every day.
  • Eat a balanced diet, avoid sugary drinks and snacks, and limit them.
  • To prevent and treat dental problems, visit your dentist frequently (at least once or twice a year, in some cases more).