Brushing your teeth excessively or with too much force can have negative effects on your dental health. It can wear down the protective layer of tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and pain. Additionally, aggressive brushing can cause the gums to recede, exposing the root area.
To maintain optimal dental hygiene, it is recommended to brush your teeth between two and three times a day, for a duration of two minutes each time. It is important to use a soft-bristle brush and make gentle, circular motions while brushing.
Furthermore, it is advisable to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth. This is because brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or beverages can weaken and damage the enamel on your teeth. Taking this precaution will help preserve the strength and integrity of your tooth enamel.
According to Tasios, brushing your teeth excessively can lead to enamel wear and receding gums. This condition, known as toothbrush abrasion, occurs when you brush your teeth too often or with too much force.
Tasios advises that there is no specific maximum number of times to brush your teeth, but brushing them more than three times a day is generally unnecessary and could be harmful. Brushing too hard or too frequently can make your teeth more sensitive and can also cause your gums to recede, exposing the root area.
According to Sean Kutlay, a dentist based in California, it is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. However, he and his colleagues brush their teeth three times a day, after each meal, which is considered to be the optimal frequency.
Tasios explained that dentists acknowledge that brushing teeth once a day is unrealistic for many people who are not home at lunchtime, so a minimum of twice a day is recommended. Failing to brush teeth at least twice a day can result in the accumulation of bacteria, cavities, and gum disease.
In addition to oral health, research suggests that inadequate brushing can have other negative effects. One recent study found that skipping nightly toothbrushing may increase the risk of heart disease, while other studies have indicated potential links to dementia, arthritis, and pancreatic cancer.
The American Dental Association also advises waiting at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing. This is because brushing immediately after consuming an acidic meal or beverage can be extremely harmful to teeth.
According to Tasios, acid weakens the tooth’s protective enamel, and combining it with abrasion from brushing can cause damage.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly?
According to experts, the best way to brush your teeth is by using a soft-bristled toothbrush and creating a circular motion. It is important to brush the gum line and all tooth surfaces thoroughly. Flossing is also crucial to remove any food bits stuck between the teeth. Additionally, it is recommended to change your toothbrush every three to four months and to brush gently in order to protect your gums. Using fluoride toothpaste and brushing for two minutes are also important, although many people tend to rush through the process.
“They rush through brushing, quickly scrubbing their front, bottom, and top teeth, giving a hasty once-over to the back teeth, and then they’re off,” she explained.
However, she emphasized that taking the time to thoroughly and carefully brush each tooth is the best way to prevent cavities and tooth decay.
What does this mean for you? If you’re someone who brushes after every meal or brushes too forcefully, it may be time to change your approach. Try gently brushing two to three times a day, using circular motions with a soft-bristle brush, for two minutes each time. And don’t forget to floss.