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Dangers Associated with Brushing Too Long

Posted on 11/23/2017 by Janice K. Pliszczak, DDS

Brushing Janice K. Pliszczak, DDS NY 13215-2205

To put it simply, over brushing can lead to a lot of risks for your dental health.

Doing too much of a good thing can lead to some unintended side effects, be it your teeth or anything in general.

Most importantly, brushing too long or too hard can lead to tooth or gum damage. Let us talk about the two factors that lead dentists to seeing patients complaining about tooth or gum problems due to over brushing.

How Long Is Too Long?

The journal of Clinical Periodontology found that two minutes of brushing is enough to make your teeth and gums cleaner and fresher. Any time more than that is just a waste.

In the published study, twelve volunteers were asked to brush their teeth at different time and pressure combinations. After two minutes, the efficiency of brushing decreased. After a couple more seconds, the possibility of gum damage rises slightly.

How Strong Should My Strokes Be?
In the same study, the best pressure or most optimal force given is 150 grams for the two minutes of brushing. 150 grams of pressure is when you can feel the bristles of the toothbrush, but not experience pain, or slightly painful for those with sensitive gums. Another indication that it is just the right force is if the bristles are almost squashed.

Gum bleeding as a result of too much force being applied in the brushing of your teeth will not do anyone good, both for you and your dentist. This can offer some possibilities for other gum diseases.

Not only that. Brushing for too long with heavy pressure also shortens the lifespan of your toothbrush.

Each individual is unique, gums, teeth and all. While over brushing may be the cause of your gum problems, there may be other factors that you cannot find.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (315) 800-5020 today.

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"You are put at ease the minute you walk into their new office on Broad Rd. Beautiful and calming surroundings. The staff couldn't be more helpful and are extremely friendly. Dr. Pliszczak is exactly what you want in a Dentist. Always concerned with your comfort, I never feel rushed, and I enjoy here friendly manner. And because of all of their meticulously thorough work, My teeth are as healthy as can be!!! Thank you Dr. Pliszczak, Jade and Nancy" ~Roamy F.