4 Signs You're Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

Too many people think that brushing their teeth extra hard will remove more plaque. However, studies have shown that applying more than a light amount of pressure while brushing doesn't make your teeth any cleaner and could actually negatively impact your oral health. Here are four signs that you might be going at your teeth a little too hard.  

1. Your Teeth Are Sensitive

Sensitive teeth can actually be caused by a whole host of different things, so they don't necessarily point towards brushing too hard. That said, this is still an important warning sign. Brushing with too much enthusiasm will actually wear down the protective layers of your teeth over time, eventually exposing the canals leading to your dental nerves. When these areas are exposed to hot or cold foods and drink, sensitivity is often the result. If your teeth are sensitive, let your dentist know so they can examine your mouth and find out why. 

2. You Notice Exposed or Bleeding Gums

Brushing too hard can be troublesome for your teeth, but it's actually a lot worse for the gums that surround them. Soft tissue won't respond well to repeated heavy brushing, resulting in the gums pulling away from the teeth. When this happens, root surfaces are exposed, and that makes decay and other serious problems all the more likely. If this is occurring, you should be able to notice that your gums have begun to draw back, and you may even find that you're spitting out a little blood along with your toothpaste.

3. You Need to Regularly Replace Your Toothbrush

Some people look at a toothbrush with splayed out bristles and assume that they're doing an excellent job of removing plaque. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Toothbrushes are made to last, and the bristles shouldn't be splayed out after even months of daily use. If your toothbrush looks like it needs to be replaced after just a few weeks, you're probably brushing far too hard.

4. Your Toothbrush Handle Bends During Use

Next time you're taking care of your pearly whites, brush as you normally do while keeping an eye on the brushes' handle. Is it bending under the force that you're exerting? If so, you're almost certainly brushing too hard, so ease up on the pressure. Remember, going harder won't mean that you get rid of more plaque, so correct this issue whenever you notice that it is occurring.

If you're worried that you're brushing your teeth too vigorously, try taking heed for the tips above, then speak to your dentist for further advice.

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