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Most people brush their teeth (at least we hope so). However, there are many who brush improperly but don’t realize that their dental hygiene practices may be contributing to oral problems.
They may pride themselves on their daily diligence, but frequency does not make up for an incorrect approach. One of the most common errors—especially for adolescents—is quick, aggressive teeth cleaning with a hard bristle toothbrush.
There is a certain logic to this technique; when you want to clean smooth surfaces like bathroom tiles, you scrub with a hard brush, right? The problem is that teeth and gums have special characteristics that require finesse. While enamel is secure, the soft tissues in the mouth are not designed for intense scouring.
If you use hard bristles against possible cavity makers, froth at the mouth, speed through those 30 inches of tooth surface, and spit everything out in less than a minute, this message is for you.
Effects of Quick, Hard Brushing:
- Tooth decay caused by bits of food left between teeth
- Damage to teeth through abrasion
- Weakened enamel
- Tooth Sensitivity
- gums receding or pulling away from teeth
- Damage to existing dental work
- Tartar build-up
The friendly dental hygienists at Peninsula Center of Cosmetic Dentistry in Los Altos CA teach patients the proper way to brush teeth. With a slow, deliberate two minutes twice daily, you can take control of your dental hygiene, improve your oral health, and reduce the risk of future problems.
Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing:
- Plaque is soft enough to scratch off with a fingernail, so brush accordingly with soft bristles
- Holding the toothbrush at the correct angle achieves a thorough cleaning
- Proper tooth brushing can prolong that wonderful professional-cleaning feel
- Flossing is easier without sore, bleeding gums
If you have already damaged your teeth or gums through aggressive or haphazard brushing, it’s important to fix those problems and get back on track. Call 210-493-3040 to schedule an appointment with Peninsula Center of Cosmetic Dentistry in Los Altos CA.
Contact Peninsula Center of Cosmetic Dentistry
(650) 948-5524
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
99 3rd St
Los Altos, California
94022