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 Alaska Premier Dental Group, 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 touch. Don’t forget to floss!
If you’re gums have already begun to recede, don’t despair! It’s a treatable condition. At Alaska Premier Dental Group we offer a full range of family dentistry procedures. People from Anchorage, Wasilla, and Eagle River also come to our office for cosmetic dentistry, and much more. Call to schedule an appointment today!
Contact Alaska Premier Dental Group:
907-337-0404
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
Alaska Premier Dental Group – Anchorage
6611 DeBarr Rd, Ste 100 and 200
Anchorage, AK 99504
Alaska Premier Dental Group – Wasilla
865 N Seward Meridian Pkwy #201
Wasilla, AK 99654
