Month: August 2023

We all know that it is essential to brush our teeth, but did you know it is possible to over-brush your teeth? Dentists feel that it is possible to over-clean your pearly whites, which has the potential of damaging them more than doing good. As per some studies, almost eighty-eight percent of us go overboard while brushing, leading to the very problem we try to avoid.

It is crucial that you clean your teeth twice a day for proper oral hygiene. But if you feel that brushing them after every meal is also needed, you are in for a surprise. Like everything else, too much of a good thing can be harmful, and here in this article, you will know the reason. So let us find out why over-brushing is terrible for your dentition and how you know that you are overdoing it.

What Are The Risks Of Overcleaning Your Dentitions?

Brushing your pearly whites is not just about how often you clean them but also about “how” you brush them. Over-vigorous or compulsive brushing puts your pearly whites at risk of tooth sensitivity, dental abrasion, and gum recession.

• Dental abrasion by toothbrush – Dental abrasion denotes corrosion of tooth structure or tissue due to contact with any foreign element. If you bite your nail or crack something hard like a nut with your dentition, tailors, carpenters, musicians, etc., are prone to abrasion on incisal dentition due to occupational hazards or habits. When you have such hazards, and you are too enthusiastic about cleaning your pearly whites, your enamel can undergo wear and tear.
• Oral sensitivity – if your enamel has been worn away due to dental abrasion, the nerve endings in the dentin layer get exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can give you pain or discomfort when you eat or drink something very hot or cold.
• Gum recession – Over enthusiastic cleaning of the mouth can also cause gum recession which makes the softer cementum in the tooth’s root vulnerable to wear and tear, giving reasons for pain and tooth decay.

Signs of Over-Brushing Your Teeth

If you use hard or medium bristle toothbrushes, you are at higher risk of damaging your pearly whites or gums. A few ways you can make out your teeth are affected due to over-cleaning are:

• Bleeding gums – Every time you spit, if you find a streak of red in the washbasin, it might mean that you are damaging your dentitions by either pressing too hard or using the wrong bristles. Your gums bleed when there is irritation or damage in the thinnest layer of your gums. Further, those with dental implants could have even damaged the gum to the extent that the abutment of your implant is visible.
• Splayed bristles – If your toothbrush looks like it has been put through a wringer, you are most probably overusing them. Splayed and frayed bristles are often indicative of how harsh you are in cleaning your pearly whites (unless the tool is older than three months). 
• Sensitive teeth – With too often cleaning of teeth, your enemy can wear away, which leads to oral sensitivity. Enamel is the protective outer coating on your dentitions, and when this gets thinned, your sensitive nerves are exposed. This causes your teeth to feel oversensitive to hot or cold temperatures in the mouth. Your dental professional can tell you if the enamel is damaged and give you suggestions on how to fix it.
• Receding gums – With time, over-brushing will cause your gums to recede, which is evident by darker or dull portions of your teeth getting visible (these are the surface of your tooth’s roots). Once a tooth’s root is exposed, it makes it vulnerable to decay and periodontal diseases. Gums recession is not a reversible process though you can go through some procedures to fix receding gums (they might not be viable for all patients).

Conclusion

It is essential that you brush your teeth twice a day, but the force with which you brush your teeth or the kind of tool you use determines your oral condition. While, as children, we might have been advised to brush our teeth after every meal, it is no longer considered beneficial but rather hazardous. If you feel your dentitions are damaged due to harsh cleaning of the mouth, check with your dental professional on what can be done to fix the problem.

Summer is a time for outdoor adventures and relaxation, but it’s crucial not to neglect your oral health amidst the excitement. By following a few simple oral hygiene tips, you can keep your smile healthy and bright throughout the summer season. This article provides five essential tips for maintaining optimal oral hygiene during summer.

Brush Regularly and Properly 

Consistent brushing is the foundation of good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably after meals, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to brush for two minutes, covering all tooth surfaces and along the gumline. Proper brushing involves gently and circularly removing plaque and food particles. Keep your toothbrush clean by replacing it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles fray. Regular brushing will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease and keep your smile fresh, healthy, and clean.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Flossing is often overlooked but is equally important for maintaining good oral health. Regular flossing helps remove plaque and debris from areas your toothbrush cannot reach, such as between the teeth and the gum line. Make it a habit to floss at least once daily, preferably before bedtime. Use a gentle sawing motion to guide the floss between your teeth, and then curve it around each tooth in a C-shape, gently moving the floss up and down. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can prevent cavities and gum problems, ensuring a healthy smile.

Stay Hydrated and Limit Sugary Drinks 

Hydration is vital for your oral health and overall health. So, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and to rinse away bacteria and food particles. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary and acidic beverages like soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices, as they can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. If you indulge in these drinks, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterward. Opting for water as your primary beverage choice will promote oral health and benefit your overall well-being.

Protect Your Smile During Outdoor Activities 

Summer is a time for outdoor activities and sports, but protecting your smile while having fun is important. If you participate in contact sports or recreational activities, consider wearing a mouthguard to shield your teeth and gums from potential injuries. A custom-fit mouthguard from your dentist provides the best protection and comfort. Additionally, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen lip balm with SPF can help protect your lips from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing sunburn and potential lip damage.

Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups

Don’t let summer break disrupt your routine dental visits. Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to maintain optimal oral health. Regular dental exams allow your dentist to detect and address any potential issues before they worsen. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone, helping to prevent gum disease and maintain a bright smile. Use the summer months as an opportunity to prioritize your oral health by scheduling a dental appointment and discussing any concerns or questions with your dentist.

Two Bonus Tips For Healthy Teeth

Bonus Tip 1: Watch Your Snacking Habits

Summertime often means indulging in snacks and treats. However, be mindful of your snacking habits to maintain good oral health. Opt for healthier snacks like fresh fruits and vegetables instead of sugary or sticky snacks. If you indulge in sweets or snacks, try to brush your teeth afterward or rinse your mouth with water to minimize the effects of sugar and prevent plaque buildup.

Bonus Tip 2: Take Care of Your Toothbrush

Proper care of your toothbrush is essential for effective oral hygiene. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use and store it upright in an open-air container to allow it to dry. Avoid sharing toothbrushes to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, change your toothbrush every three months. Maintaining a clean and functional toothbrush ensures optimal brushing and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.

Conclusion

You can ensure a healthy summer smile by following these five oral hygiene tips—regular brushing and flossing, staying hydrated and limiting sugary drinks, protecting your smile during outdoor activities, and maintaining regular dental check-ups. Remember, taking care of your oral health contributes to your overall well-being and allows you to enjoy the season with confidence and a radiant smile.