Do you ever find yourself brushing your teeth like you’re scrubbing a stubborn stain, thinking, “The harder, the better?” While your dedication to oral hygiene is admirable, your enthusiasm might be doing more harm than good. Overbrushing, often mistaken for thorough cleaning, can wear down your enamel, irritate your gums, and even increase sensitivity. Yes, in your quest for a sparkling smile, you might actually be scrubbing away your teeth's natural defences!
To understand how overbrushing can harm your teeth, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Keshav Naithani (BDS, MDS) Senior Director and HOD, Oral Oncology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Max Multi Speciality Hospital, Noida.
Dr Naithani said, “Overbrushing, also known as toothbrush abrasion, is a common dental issue caused by excessive or overly aggressive brushing.” While maintaining oral hygiene is crucial, improper brushing techniques or excessive force can lead to various problems that can harm your teeth and gums in several ways.
Here’s how compulsive, overbrushing, or overvigorous brushing can cause damage:
Damage to Tooth Enamel
Wearing away enamel: The enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, is strong but not invincible. “Vigorous brushing or overbrushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush or abrasive toothpaste can erode the enamel over time, exposing the underlying dentin and making teeth more sensitive,” Dr Naithani said.
Creating microscratches: Aggressive brushing can create tiny scratches on the enamel surface, providing a pathway for bacteria to enter and cause decay.
Also read: Five Tips To Up Your Dental Care Keeping Cavities Away
Gum Damage and Recession
Gum recession: Overbrushing can cause gums to recede, exposing the roots of teeth, which are more sensitive and less protected than the enamel-covered crown, making them more susceptible to decay.
Gum inflammation: Aggressive brushing, according to Dr Naithani, can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis if left untreated.
Other Risks
Tooth sensitivity: Overbrushing leads to abrasion and, wears away the tooth enamel, the dentin layer's nerve endings either become exposed or close enough to the surface to lead to tooth sensitivity. “This sensitivity may cause discomfort or pain when your teeth are exposed to hot and cold, sweet, or sour stimuli or when brushing teeth,” Dr Naithani notes.
Damage to dental work: Overbrushing can damage dental work such as fillings, crowns, or bridges.
Aesthetic issues: “Overbrushing can cause uneven wear on the teeth, leading to changes in their appearance,” Dr Naithani emphasised. Exposed roots often appear darker than enamel, giving your smile an uneven or aged look.
Prevention
To avoid harming your teeth and gums, remember to:
Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions.
Brush for the right amount of time: Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day.
Use a fluoride toothpaste: Choose a toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen tooth enamel.
Replace your toothbrush regularly: Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles become frayed.
Conclusion
Brushing your teeth is essential for good oral health, but overbrushing can do more harm than good. By adopting the right technique and using appropriate tools, you can maintain a healthy smile without damaging your teeth or gums. If you notice signs of enamel wear, gum recession, or tooth sensitivity, consult your dentist for guidance on improving your brushing habits.