The Perils of Brushing Too Hard or Too Often

It's not uncommon for Hamlin Dental to see patients who just don't brush or floss properly. It's something that's so second nature, like getting up in the morning to brush your teeth. While some of us may breeze through it, others are overly meticulous about oral hygiene may in fact cause damage to their mouths. Hamlin Dental, the top dentist in North Hollywood, has seen a number of patients who regularly brush their teeth too hard, or with a toothbrush that has hard bristles which can damage the teeth and gums.

Some of the worst tooth-brushing mistakes Hamlin Dental Group sees include:

• Using a brush that isn't the proper size. 
• Not brushing inner tooth surfaces.
• Not properly rinsing a toothbrush.
• Not letting the toothbrush dry properly.
• Using the same toothbrush for more than three or four months.
• Brushing the teeth with the wrong bristles, such as overly stiff bristles which damage teeth or gums.
• Not brushing often enough, or long enough per session. Patients should brush gently for 2-3 minutes.
• Brushing too hard or too often — it often surprises patients that this is possible, but it is. Brushing too vigorously can expose the teeth roots to irritation, erode enamel, and cause the gums to recede.

If you're guilty of brushing improperly, never fear. The team at Hamlin Dental Group can get your smile looking beautiful again. Simply call our North Hollywood dentist office at to schedule an appointment!