Properly brushing your teeth may be harder than you think. Often, we overbrush or underbrush our teeth. While you don’t need to brush your teeth perfectly every time, it is important to have a good brushing technique to avoid the side effects of overbrushing or underbrushing. Learn about these side effects and signs to look for to make sure you aren’t overbrushing or underbrushing.

What is overbrushing?

Overbrushing, also known as toothbrush abrasion, is a dental condition that occurs when an individual brushes their teeth too aggressively or with too much force. This excessive force can lead to various oral health problems and damage to the teeth and gums.

What actions contribute to overbrushing?

The excessive force can lead to various oral health problems and damage to the teeth and gums. Overbrushing can include the following:

Excessive Pressure

Overbrushing involves applying too much pressure when brushing your teeth. Some people may use a hard-bristle toothbrush, thinking it will clean better, and then apply significant force during brushing.

Frequent Brushing

Brushing your teeth too frequently, especially immediately after meals when the enamel is soft from acid exposure, can also contribute to overbrushing.

Vigorous Technique

Aggressive and scrubbing motions while brushing can cause abrasion to the tooth enamel and irritate the gums.

Using a Hard Toothbrush

Hard-bristle toothbrushes are less forgiving when it comes to applying excessive force. They can cause more damage if not used gently.

What are the side effects of overbrushing?

Overbrushing can potentially lead to the following oral health issues:

• Gum Recession: Excessive force can cause the gum tissue to recede, exposing the sensitive tooth roots.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Overbrushing can lead to tooth sensitivity, making your teeth more susceptible to discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods.
• Enamel Erosion: The enamel, the protective outer layer of the teeth, can wear down, making the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and damage.
• Tooth Wear: Over time, teeth may show signs of wear or flattening, particularly near the gumline.
• Bleeding Gums: Aggressive brushing can cause gum tissue to bleed and become inflamed. If bleeding gums last for over a week, it is best to contact your dentist.  
• Compromised Dental Work: Existing dental work, like fillings, crowns, or veneers, may become damaged or dislodged due to overbrushing.

What is under brushing?

Under brushing, also known as inadequate brushing, is a dental hygiene issue when a person does not brush their teeth effectively or frequently enough to maintain good oral health. Unlike overbrushing, which involves excessive force during brushing, underbrushing relates to insufficient cleaning of the teeth and gums.

What actions constitute under-brushing?

Underbrushing can be due to a variety of things, with the most common being:

Infrequent Brushing

Underbrushing involves not brushing teeth as often as recommended. Ideally, individuals should brush their teeth at least twice daily, in the morning and before bedtime, to remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque.

Inadequate Brushing Duration

Sometimes, individuals may brush their teeth but do so for too short a duration, often less than the recommended two minutes. This insufficient brushing time may not effectively remove all debris and plaque.

Incomplete Tooth Surface Coverage

Under brushing may involve neglecting certain areas of the mouth or not thoroughly cleaning all tooth surfaces, including the backs of teeth and along the gumline.

Lack of Proper Technique

Using improper brushing techniques, such as brushing too gently or not angling the toothbrush correctly, can contribute to underbrushing. Learn how to properly brush your teeth to avoid the side effects of underbrushing.

What are the side effects of under-brushing?

Underbrushing can lead to the following consequences:

• Tooth Decay: Inadequate cleaning can lead to plaque buildup, resulting in tooth decay (cavities) over time.
• Gum Disease: Neglecting to remove plaque and bacteria from the gumline can lead to gingivitis (early gum disease) and, if left untreated, more severe forms of periodontal disease, which can also increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Bad Breath: Incomplete cleaning can allow odor-causing bacteria to grow, leading to bad breath (halitosis).
• Tooth Discoloration: Plaque buildup can cause tooth discoloration and stains.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Inadequate cleaning may result in tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.

In need of a dental cleaning?

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings by a Registered Dental Hygienist can help address oral health issues caused by overbrushing or underbrushing. Contact one of Fortson Dentistry’s locations if you are ready to get your teeth cleaned!

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