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Posted on 2/25/2019 by Bryan Neu |
Brushing twice a day is the minimum we recommend for our patients, but can you take it to the opposite extreme? Is it possible to brush your teeth too much? Can you actually do harm to your teeth by over brushing? Too Much of a Good Thing Believe it or not, we do occasionally see the patient who has brushed their teeth too much, too hard or too often and actually caused damage to their teeth. How? You ask, well brushing your teeth more than three times a day can actually damage your teeth by causing the tooth enamel to wear down quickly. Excessive brushing, or brushing with too much pressure, can also cause damage to the gum tissue. It can make the tissue become irritated and inflamed and this can lead to infection. The enamel on our teeth works as a shield protecting the teeth from bacteria, plaque and tartar build up. While it is imperative that proper brushing is practiced, too much of a good thing can be damaging. Make sure that you choose the right toothbrush for your oral hygiene. Not too soft, not too hard and check to ensure that the bristles are smooth, not jagged or sharp. Brushing after meals is also important, but try to keep your brushing to three times a day, max. If you feel the need to brush more often, try a mouthwash or simply rinse your mouth with water instead. This can help flush out any food particles that may be lingering in your mouth, while at the same time, save the enamel on your teeth from being over brushed. Scheduling your regular checkups and cleanings is another very important part of good oral health. Give our office a call today and schedule your next visit. We look forward to hearing from you. |
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