Dr. Puig Reminds Us: Don’t Brush So Hard!

YES, OF COURSE… Brushing your teeth is an important component of your lifelong oral health. You’ve known that since you were just a kid. But, did you know that there’s actually a lot of technique to brushing your teeth? It’s not something most people know, or often talk about… Not exactly common dinner conversation!

As Dr. Puig and her entire team treat you (our valued patients) and your family members, one of the things that we often notice is that you’re brushing your teeth too hard.

We often hear patients complain about tooth sensitivity. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, sensitivity affects millions and millions of people in this country. Eating acidic foods and drinking acidic beverages is probably the most common contributor to tooth sensitivity, but your aggressive brushing techniques may be a close second.

Dr. Puig says, “If your protective enamel layer over your teeth becomes eroded, and/or your gumline recedes from brushing too hard, the softer tissue (called dentin) can be exposed. This dentin is connected to your tooth’s nerve which can cause sensitivity or pain.”

Certain whitening products and mouthwashes can also contribute. And of course, if there’s a problem in your mouth such as a cracked tooth, this can be causing pain as well (Hint: Be sure to keep your regularly scheduled checkup appointments! We can catch things before they become a problem.).

So, what can you do?

1. Use soft-bristled toothbrushes.
2. Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
3. Brush in circular motions.
4. Brush gently.
5. Use your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle.
6. Hold toothbrush in your fingertips—not like a hammer in the palm of your hand.

Helping you take good care of your teeth is important to every member of our team here at Dynamic Smile Design. If you ever have any questions, be sure to contact us! And, stay in touch with us on Facebook. It’s a great way to learn about your oral health—and to have a little fun doing it.

Speaking of fun… There are some creative folks at an ad agency we admire called Richter 7 who made this fun little clip. Wow…  And you’re wondering if YOU are brushing too hard?!