Aggressive tooth brushing removes the outer portion of the teeth, which is called "enamel." It can also remove the thin layer that's situated behind enamel, which is called "dentin." At times, people brush with a "heavy hand," and at other times, people choose toothbrushes that have hard bristles. Both of these practices can cause a lot of problems for the mouth. We can help restore your dental health, but it's better to avoid problems in the first place.
Aggressive Brushing Doesn't Help Your Oral Health
Aggressive brushing is also known as "over-brushing." In the old days, toothbrushes were made with metal bristles, and this was detrimental to oral health. Nowadays, some people are still convinced that they must apply a lot of pressure or use a hard-bristled brush in order to get their teeth clean. A worn-down toothbrush that has bristles that appear flattened or pushed back may be an indication of aggressive brushing. The perceived benefit of aggressive brushing is short-lived, as teeth begin to experience numerous problems.
Common Problems Associate with Aggressive Brushing
Along with enamel and dentin erosion, people find that they experience a sudden increase in tooth sensitivity. This is because the tooth's dentin becomes exposed and also starts to slowly erode. The dentin has tubules that are connected to the tooth's nerves. Anything sweet, hot, sour or cold can cause pain.
There are several other issues with aggressive brushing:
- Tooth decay—Enamel helps to prevent tooth decay. With enamel erosion, people experience a significant amount of decay.
- Tooth loss— Because aggressively brushing teeth causes pronounced tooth decay, the consequences lead to tooth loss, which can lead to gingivitis and loss of bone mass in the jaw down the road.
- Gum recession—Applying too much pressure to the teeth while brushing causes the gum-line to recede from teeth, which leads to the introduction of plaque and other bacteria into the gums and the body's bloodstream. This can indirectly lead to heart disease and other issues. It also increases the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Root Canal Infections—With tooth decay, teeth are at greater risk of infection of the pulp and other inner structures of the teeth.
- Additional dental work—Visiting our Los Angeles dentist twice a year is a good idea, but aggressive brushing can cause a lot of harm that could otherwise be avoided.
Proper Brushing
Proper brushing makes all the difference in the world. Immediately refrain from using too much pressure while brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush your teeth using circular motions, and invert the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to adequately clean the teeth along the gum-line. Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after eating or drinking, as this is the time enamel is the weakest. Wait 30 minutes before brushing.
If you already have tooth sensitivity and other signs that point toward enamel or dentin erosion, schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable Century City dentist immediately. Use a toothpaste that helps with sensitivity, and avoid food or drink that causes pain, as needed.