Are You Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard? Here Are 4 Dentist-Approved Ways To Help Protect Your Teeth For A Healthy, Happy Smile
Many people think that the harder they brush their teeth, the cleaner – and whiter – their smile will be.
Unfortunately, brushing your teeth too hard can damage them.
Your teeth are made up of different types of tissue including pulp, dentin, and enamel. Pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth. It’s where nerves and blood vessels nourish your teeth. Dentin, which is as hard as bone, surrounds the pulp. On the outside of dentin is your tooth enamel.
Although enamel is the hardest tissue in the body, when you brush your teeth too vigorously, it can wear down your tooth enamel.
It can also lead to receding gums, which can cause other dental issues such as gum disease and cavities.
If you’re wondering if you brush your teeth too hard, your dentist can tell you.
Protect Your Teeth with Proper Care
Here are four ways you can help protect your teeth and make sure you brush properly:
- Buy a toothbrush with soft bristles. This will help keep you from damaging your gums and the soft tooth dentin that’s located under your tooth enamel.
- Make sure you place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line when brushing.
- Gently move the toothbrush with short strokes and a scrubbing motion, several times in each spot. Make sure you don’t brush back and forth across the teeth with your toothbrush. This can damage your enamel.
- Only use just enough pressure to feel the bristles against the gums. If you are squashing the bristles, you’re brushing too hard.
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly will help keep them looking their best.
If you’re not happy with the way your teeth look—they may have stains or become yellow with age. Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening options.
At Forest Ridge Dental Group, we can give you a beautiful reason to smile. Give us a call to schedule an appointment!
