Everyone wants nice, pearly white teeth. It makes sense, then, to brush our teeth more often to get them – right? Well, no. As we explain in this post from the Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry in Alexandria, brushing too aggressively can result in receding gums.
Gum recession is when your gum line exposes more of your teeth, or in severe cases, your tooth root. It creates a pocket of space between your teeth and gum line. Decay-causing bacteria can grow and fester in that pocket. This leads to serious issues down the line. Even tooth loss.
Longer or Harder?
A common misconception is the idea that if you want to lighten your teeth, you should scrub them really hard.
The best way to get white teeth is to brush longer, not harder. The key, though, is to use a very light touch. Gently brush your teeth until they’re squeaky clean. Run your tongue over them. Doesn’t that feel great?
Why?
When you brush your teeth too quickly, you may not remove all the food particles. You don’t want this debris turning into plaque.
If you truly want whiter teeth, brush in a slow, circular motion for about five minutes. Methodically go over each tooth surface.
Use a whitening toothpaste with fluoride. That way, you get all the recent gunk off and your teeth get a little bit whiter each time you brush. The fluoride helps your enamel re-harden.
Let’s Review
Brushing too aggressively can lead to gum recession. Gum recession can (and most likely will) cause a space to form between your teeth and gum line. This pocket collects bacteria. Bacteria causes cavities. Plus, if the gums continue to recede, the tooth can become loose.
The best approach is to brush longer, and with a light gentle touch. Don’t forget to floss!
If you’re gums have already begun to recede, don’t despair! It’s a treatable condition. At the Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry in Alexandria we offer a full range of family and restorative dentistry procedures. Call to schedule an appointment today.
Contact Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry:
703-360-5881
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria, Virginia
22306
