It’s Okay to Go Easy Sometimes: The Downsides of Brushing Too Hard

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential to preventing accumulations of harmful bacteria that can lead to nasty oral infections like tooth decay and gum disease. However, you can harm your teeth if you brush them too aggressively, which can result in unsightly scratches and enamel erosion. Here’s a quick overview of how you can brush your teeth safely, gently, and effectively so you can stay in excellent oral health.

Stick with a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

While you may be inclined to think that using a stiff-bristled toothbrush would be ideal, this is not the case. While these brushes may more easily remove plaque and tartar, they are also harsh enough to injure enamel and gum tissue, which can weaken your teeth and leave you with a receding gumline. It’s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that will not easily scratch your dental structures.

Master the Motion

Pressing your brush too hard against your teeth can strain your enamel, and brushing too aggressively can wear down your dental structure and gum tissue. It’s best to brush gently for two minutes at a time using short, circular strokes to prevent scratches as well as irritation and erosion of the gum tissue.

Wait a While After Eating

Eating or drinking anything but water can be stressful for your teeth, so it’s best to wait at least thirty minutes after snacks, meals, or sugary beverages before brushing. This gives your enamel time to recover and remineralize, and it is especially important after consuming sweet or acidic items, as brushing too soon after enjoying them can simply rub the harmful chemicals deeper into your teeth.

Store Your Toothbrush Properly

It doesn’t make sense to clean your teeth with a dirty toothbrush, so caring for your appliance properly is an important part of preserving your oral health. It’s best to store your brush in an upright position in the open air so the water clinging to it can evaporate easily, which will help inhibit the growth of bacteria. It’s also important to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, when the bristles become frayed, or if you ever find out that somebody else has used it.

Proper brushing techniques are the foundation of your oral hygiene regimen. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best ways to clean your teeth.

About the Practice

Aesthetic Dental Spa offers the finest oral healthcare available in Vienna. Led by Dr. Alex M. Naini, the staff treats each patient with sincere compassion and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about proper brushing techniques, contact the practice online or dial (703) 827-8282.