Brushing too hard yellow teeth

Is it possible to brush your teeth too hard? A dentist weighs in.

Brushing your teeth is one of the easiest ways to keep your dental health in tip-top shape. Brushing twice a day, choosing a good toothbrush, and remembering to visit your dentist are all part of an oral routine that can set you up for success.

But is it possible that something as simple as brushing can be done incorrectly? Is it possible to brush too hard?

“Absolutely,” says Dr. Kami Hoss, founder of The Super Dentists. “We unfortunately see damage on teeth and/or gums from brushing too hard, or with the wrong toothbrush, bristles, or techniques, every day at our practice when new patients come to see us.”

Damage Caused By Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard and using a toothbrush with stiff, coarse bristles can wear down and damage both the teeth and gums, creating a host of issues, such as gum recession and enamel wear, both of which are linked to tooth sensitivity.

According to Hoss, factors beyond brushing that may contribute to tooth sensitivity are a high

how should you brush your teeth with baking soda

how do you brush your teeth