YES, OF COURSE…brushing your teeth thoroughly and regularly is an important component of our lifelong oral health, but did you know that there are many important techniques to brushing your teeth?
As we treat you and your family here at Lilly Family Dentistry, one of the things we often notice is that many of you just brush your teeth too hard.
Among quite a few other problems, brushing your teeth too hard can increase teeth sensitivity. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, sensitivity affects millions of people in the United States.
Dr. Kevin Lilly says, “If the protective layer of enamel over your teeth becomes eroded from brushing too hard and causes your gumline to recede, the softer tissue (called the dentin) can become exposed. Dentin is connected to your tooth’s nerves, so if it is exposed it will cause sensitivity and pain.”
In addition to brushing too hard, there are also a few whitening products and mouthwashes that can contribute to teeth sensitivity —keep your regularly scheduled checkup appointments with Dr. Lilly and his awesome team! We can help relieve your pain and send you back on the track to health and comfort.
So, what should you do?
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Hold your toothbrush gently in your fingertips—not like a construction worker might hold a hammer!
- Brush gently.
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle.
- Brush in circular motions.
Making sure you understand how to take the very best care of your teeth is important to every member of our team here at Lilly Family Dentistry. If you have any other questions, be sure to contact us!
If you’re in the mood for some fun, check out this video below that some creative folks at an ad agency called Richter 7 made. Wow…And you were wondering if YOU were brushing too hard!
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