Many patients of Charleston Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, LLC are surprised to learn that they have suffered dental damage despite what they believe to have been excellent tooth brushing habits. They are often frustrated to find out that they require restorative dentistry treatments to return strength and function to their mouths even though they brush their teeth twice a day and after every meal, as recommended by the American Dental Association. However, as these patients discover, aggressive tooth brushing can sometimes be as harmful to the teeth as not brushing them at all.

Dr. John Rink discusses the issue of dental damage and aggressive tooth brushing during appointments at his Charleston, SC cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry practice. It is important not only to brush regularly, but also to brush properly. By instructing patients on proper tooth brushing techniques during their visits, Dr. Rink helps to provide them with the education they need to keep their teeth and gums in optimal shape between appointments at Charleston Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry.

If you would like to learn more about how you can optimize your oral health from a true pioneer in cosmetic dentistry, please schedule your initial consultation with Dr. John Rink today.

How Can Aggressive Tooth Brushing Damage Your Teeth?

Your teeth are protected by a substance called enamel, which is one of the hardest and most durable substances in all of nature. Even enamel, however, can be worn down over time. The point of brushing your teeth is to protect enamel from those elements that can cause the greatest damage to it, including bacterial plaque. However, if you use undue force to brush your teeth, you could actually be causing long-term wear on the enamel, as well.

One of the reasons you rarely if ever see hard-bristled toothbrushes on store shelves anymore is that they are generally too abrasive, especially when used with excess force. They offer no advantage over soft- and medium-bristled toothbrushes in terms of their ability to clean the teeth and remove plaque, food particles, and other debris. On the other hand, soft- and medium-bristled toothbrushes are far less likely to cause damage to enamel.

Ultimately, it is up to you not to use too much force when brushing your teeth. Gentle force will remove just as much plaque as aggressive force. Far more important than the force you use is how thorough you are in brushing your teeth. Be certain to cover all of the surfaces of your teeth, including the top and back surfaces. Do not forget to floss and use a mouth rinse to complete your oral health regiment. Equally importantly, be sure to visit our practice at least twice a year for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Learn More about Dental Damage and Aggressive Tooth Brushing

To learn more about dental damage and how to avoid it through proper tooth brushing, please contact Charleston Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, LLC today.