Got Sensitive Teeth? Your Brushing Habits May Be To Blame!

While common sense may tell you that brushing vigorously may help make your teeth whiter, tooth abrasion brought about by over brushing is actually one of the leading causes of tooth sensitivity. By and large, vigorous brushing and scrubbing can actually wear down the enamel (the outermost part of your teeth), damage the gums,  and push back the gum line. Consequently, the nerves within the tooth are overexposed resulting to the oh-so-familiar sensitive tooth pain which is a common complaint of our patients here at our Maryland dental practice.

Toothbrush Habit Overhaul

If you’re guilty of over brushing, a toothbrush habit overhaul should be in order! Below are steps to help you get started:

• Get a new toothbrush. Choose the soft-bristled nylon types as they are gentler to the gums than their hard-bristled alternatives.
• When brushing, do not just scrub back and forth across the teeth. Instead, position the head of the toothbrush at 45 degree angle to the gumline. Brush each spot in a short, circular strokes several times before moving to the next spot.
• Choose toothpastes that are not too abrasive.
• Pressure while brushing your teeth should be gentle yet firm. If you are squashing the bristles of your toothbrush, you are actually brushing too hard.
• Brush the back of your teeth first then brush your way forward.

If tooth sensitivity persists after changing your brushing habits, we’d love to help you figure out the root cause. Here at our Maryland dental practice, we make it a point to go at great lengths to match our services to your expectations. Call us now for an initial consultation! Call (301) 238-7083 or fill out this contact form.