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Our Steele Creek Dentist Shares Top Signs You’re Brushing Too Hard

If you are brushing your teeth as hard as you can in effort to remove the plaque, you may be surprised to learn that plaque is usually easy to remove with quick, gentle tooth brush strokes. Below are some signs that you are using too much force when you brush your teeth, potentially causing unnecessary damage to your enamel and your gums.

Frayed Toothbrush Bristles

If your toothbrush looks flat and “smushed”, with bristles that are split or frayed, you are probably brushing too hard. If you struggle to brush more gently, one good way to help yourself be more gentle is using an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor that lights up or stops if you brush too hard. Some electric toothbrushes also come with a 2-minute timer so that you do not brush for too long.

Receding or Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are usually a sign that you have not brushed enough, but bleeding and receding gums can also be a result of over-brushing. It’s important to understand that this is not just a cosmetic issue; your teeth need your gums to protect them from infection and decay, and gum recession is a serious issue. If you suspect your gums are receding, run a finger over your teeth. If you can feel notches or gaps where your gumline used to be, schedule an appointment with our Steele Creek general dentist office to find out what you can do.

Sensitive Teeth

When you brush too hard, you wear down the hard enamel protecting your teeth, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath. The more enamel you lose, the more sensitive your teeth will be. If hot foods, cold foods, and carbonated drinks might all cause you more discomfort than they used to, you may need to brush more gently. You can also strengthen your teeth with fluoride, and avoid toothpastes which contain abrasive substances like activated charcoal.

Dull or Yellow Teeth

Yellow teeth are usually a result of staining from coffee, wine, and/or smoking, but they can also be caused by brushing too hard or too often. This will cause the while enamel on the surface of the teeth to erode and expose the pale yellow dentin beneath it. If your teeth are sensitive and seem to have a yellowish sheen, try brushing more lightly to reduce further damage.

Schedule an Appointment With Our Steele Creek General Dentist!

If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, stop by our Steele Creek general dentist office today. Our compassionate, friendly dentists and dental hygienists will put you at ease and help you choose a treatment plan that is right for your health needs, schedule, and budget. To request an appointment, click here.

Steele Creek Smiles

Steele Creek Smiles is a top family dentist in Charlotte, NC. These cosmetic dentistry blogs and general dentistry blogs are for education purposes only.

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