Do you feel like you may have been overbrushing your teeth? Most dental professionals recommend brushing your teeth regularly as a simple way to help maintain good oral hygiene.

While brushing your teeth two to or three times a day is recommended by a local dental professional is beneficial, overbrushing teeth can actually cause dental health issues.

Dental professionals at Barry P. Levin, DMD, P.C. provide dental hygiene tips to avoid overbrushing your teeth and when to seek dental care in the informative guide below.

How to Tell if You Are Overbrushing Teeth

While the best way to maintain your oral hygiene is to schedule regular checkups and exams with a local dental professional there are a few tell-tale signs that can indicate you may be brushing too hard at home.

Here are a few common examples reported by dental patients and dental professionals.

Receding Gumlines

A tell-tale sign that you are overbrushing teeth is gum lines that appear to be receding. Gums that are starting to look like they are “pulling away” from your teeth could be a sign of overbrushing or other impending dental health issues.

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

Worn enamel or exposed roots caused by overbrushing can lead to tooth sensitivity. You may be overbrushing your teeth if hot, sweet, or cold foods suddenly start to become a pain. Visit your local dentist’s office to get an exam to avoid more serious issues.

Worn-Out Toothbrushes

If you find yourself constantly having to replace toothbrushes or your brushes start to look worn, frayed, or tattered within just a few weeks, you could be applying too much pressure when brushing.

The best way to find out if you are overbrushing teeth is to get a comprehensive oral exam from a trusted local dental professional near you.

Dental Hygiene Tips and Toothbrushing Techniques to Avoid Overbrushing

Use an Electric Toothbrush

Many dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush to maintain optimal oral health when brushing your teeth at home. Not only do electric brushes lead to a cleaner feel, but some also have built-in pressure sensors that can alert users when they are brushing too hard.

Brush for at Least Two Minutes

Brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle while spending about 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth should be sufficient to remove remaining plaque, debris, and maintain optimal oral health.

Apply gentle pressure to the upper and lower quadrants of your mouth using a soft-bristle toothbrush for best results.

Add Flossing and Rinsing to Your Daily Brushing Routine

Avoid overbrushing and trying to remove plaque or food by using dental floss and rinsing with a tool like a waterpik. Adding flossing and rinsing to your daily brushing routine can decrease the likelihood of overbrushing to remove stuck-on foods.

Dental Exams for Overbrushing

Get the support and advice of a trusted local dental professional to resolve issues with overbrushing. A knowledgeable dentist at Barry P. Levin, DMD, P.C. can provide you with regular dental exams, hygienic cleaning options, advanced toothbrushing techniques and emergency dental services in Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia.

Start by contacting our office today!