1️- Premature wear of the enamel

When you apply excessive pressure, the bristles of the brush act as an abrasive that gradually weakens the protective surface of the teeth.
As a result, the enamel thins, leaving the dentin exposed, which promotes sensitivity to hot, cold and sugar.

2️- Gum recession

Gums are delicate tissues. Overly vigorous movements or back-and-forth brushing can cause them to gradually recede.
This retraction exposes the roots, which are more vulnerable to cavities and hypersensitivity.

3️- Daily micro-traumas

Aggressive brushing creates small lesions that are invisible to the naked eye. In the long term, these create a breeding ground for inflammation and bleeding.

How do you know if you're brushing your teeth too hard?

- Your brush bristles will fan out after a few weeks.
- Your gums become sensitive or recede.
- You feel acute pain when cold.
- You observe “V” shaped wear at the base of the teeth.

If you recognize yourself, rest assured: it is entirely possible to correct these habits.

Brushing technique: the right steps to protect your smile

Here are my step-by-step recommendations:

1️- Choose a suitable brush

• Always choose a soft bristle brush, our favorite: The Smilist professional polishing toothbrush with 10 bristles. 
• If using an electric brush, let it glide gently without pressing.

2️- Use the right pressure

Imagine you're massaging your gums, not rubbing a stain:
- Your hairs should remain straight, not crushed.
- A simple test: hold your brush between two fingers. You won't be able to press too hard.

3️- Adopt the right movement

• Place the brush at a 45° angle towards the gum.
• Make sweeps from red to white: from the gum to the tooth.
• Avoid horizontal back and forth movements which traumatize the enamel.

4️- Respect the brushing time

2 minutes is enough: 30 seconds per quadrant. No need to extend to “clean better”.

5️- Use environmentally friendly toothpaste

Choose a low-abrasive formula that supports the balance of the oral microbiota.
-> Tip: Toothpastes from The Smilist are designed in France by a dentist, to clean effectively without damaging the enamel or irritating the gums!

My advice!

Don't feel guilty if you realize you've been brushing your teeth too hard for years. What matters is adopting new habits today.

By learning to brush gently, you will protect your smile, your gums and your daily comfort.

If you need help evaluating your technique, I invite you to talk to your dentist or contact us!

Christiane
Dentist & co-founder of The Smilist