Are You Brushing For Success?

You have no doubt heard that it’s possible to have too much of a good thing but would you ever have referenced that thought to your good oral health habits? Actually, it could apply. Brushing your teeth every day is the mainstay of a proper regimen for home dental care. Dentists recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes at a time using a soft bristle toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.

Being too aggressive or brushing with hard bristles can do more harm than good. It can damage your enamel and leave the under layers of your teeth vulnerable to an attack by bacterial plaque. It can also cause the gum tissue to recede from the teeth which can increase sensitivity and eventually lead to gum disease.

There’s no need to overdo it. The main reason for brushing is to get rid of the daily plaque that comes from the foods that we eat. Plaque is a sticky material but it is soft enough to be easily removed by brushing thoroughly in a gentle motion.

Some toothpaste formulas are more abrasive than others and can begin to eat away at the protective coating of enamel that covers your teeth. Your dentist or dental hygienist can tell you what chemicals to steer clear of when choosing an appropriate toothpaste. Check the label for ingredients.