11/24/2020
WE OFTEN REMIND our patients of the importance of brushing for two full minutes twice a day. We stand by that, because doing so, along with daily flossing, is the best way of combating the constant encroachment of plaque. However, technique is important, and so is the toothbrush.
We shouldn’t be brushing so hard that the bristles quickly become bent outward or using toothbrushes with stiff bristles. Why? Because overbrushing can damage enamel and even wear away gum tissue over time. That’s right, gum recession is a real risk of brushing too hard. 😬
Our teeth and gums are not built to stand up to frequent, harsh scouring. We encourage our patients to aim for a Goldilocks approach in their brushing: do still brush two minutes twice a day, ✌️ but use a soft-bristled toothbrush and don’t use a ton of pressure. It also helps to hold the toothbrush like a pencil ✏️ and to use gentle circle motions instead of sawing back and forth.
