How Over brushing Damages Your Teeth?

Brushing your teeth is an important step in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The Australian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes, twice every day. However, some people brush their teeth after every meal or midday to freshen up. While this may not always be a bad thing, but when you brush too much, you may end up damaging your teeth.

Over brushing can cause damage, resulting in gum recession, teeth sensitivity, and more. According to ADA, about 10-20% of Australian adults have damaged their teeth and gums from over brushing, and they are suffering from its side effects.

What are the Side Effects of over brushing?

Tooth Abrasion

Brushing too hard and for too long, especially using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause tooth abrasion. The main aim of brushing your teeth is to remove plaque. However, what most people do not know is that plaque is very soft. As a matter of fact, plaque can easily be brushed off with a cloth, if it is within reach. Usually, those that have the habit of over brushing their teeth are the people who suffer the most from tooth abrasion since they are essentially scratching their teeth.

Gum Recession

Receding gums is another side effect of over brushing. To know whether you are suffering from gum recession, smile in front of a mirror and take a close look at your gums. Recessed gums are usually lower and expose the roots of your teeth. Also, if your teeth appear longer than usual, then you could be having gum recession caused by over brushing. When the roots are exposed, they can make your teeth sensitive and painful.

Tooth Sensitivity

Over brushing can cause tooth sensitivity whereby when you eat hot or cold foods, you feel a sudden pain in your teeth. Over brushing breaks down the outer layer of the teeth known as the enamel. Enamel is part of the teeth that protects the sensitive underlying layers from destruction. Once the enamel is destroyed from over brushing, it does not grow back, and this leaves you with few options to repair the damage. The few options of repairing teeth sensitivity include brushing your teeth using toothpaste specially made for sensitive teeth, or getting crowns and veneers for severely damaged teeth.

Dull Smile

Loss of enamel leaves your teeth looking less bright and white. Therefore, if your teeth are looking a bit dull, you may be brushing them too hard and for long.

Bottom Line

Keep in mind that over brushing your teeth does not necessarily mean clean and sparkly teeth. Using the right toothbrush, visiting your dentist regularly, and executing the proper brushing technique are the only sure ways of achieving a healthy mouth. And to achieve a healthy mouth, you need to partner with a trusted and experienced dentist.

At Springvale Dental Clinic, we take pride in providing our patients with personalised oral care and attention. We offer a wide range of dental services that will suit you and your family's needs. Visit or contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us be your partner in achieving your desired smile.