Oral hygiene: Read this article to understand why brushing for an extended period in an attempt to remove stains or discoloration from your teeth is not advisable. As a child, I used to dislike brushing my teeth, which resulted in them becoming yellow over time. Although I didn’t pay much attention to it when I was young, as a teenager, I became self-conscious about my yellow teeth. In an attempt to get rid of the discoloration, I started brushing my teeth twice a day, applying more pressure, and brushing for almost five minutes, hoping the yellowness would disappear. However, this may have caused damage to the enamel, ultimately leading me to visit a dentist.”Oral hygiene “
Even research suggests that brushing for more than two minutes can lead to dental issues. To delve deeper into why it’s not advisable to brush for more than two minutes, OnlyMyHealth spoke with Dr. Anjana Satyajit, Head of Dentistry at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram.
While it’s essential to brush your teeth properly twice a day for good oral health, many people are unaware of the appropriate duration for brushing. Some brush for less than a minute, leaving their teeth inadequately cleaned, while others exceed the necessary brushing time, which can also pose dental problems.
According to Dr. Satyajit, “Many people believe that the longer you brush, the healthier your teeth will be. However, this belief is unhealthy and can have various adverse effects.”
Why You Should Not Brush for More Than Two Minutes?
Working alongside Dr. Satyajit, we’ve compiled reasons why it’s advised not to exceed two minutes while brushing:
- Gum Recession:
Excessive brushing can lead to gum recession, where the gum tissue recedes, exposing more of the tooth’s root. This heightens tooth sensitivity and raises the risk of cavities. - Enamel Wear:
Brushing with excessive force or duration can erode the protective enamel layer of teeth, rendering them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. - Soft Tissue Damage:
Over-brushing may irritate the delicate tissues inside the mouth, resulting in inflammation, soreness, and potentially mouth ulcers, as noted by Dr. Satyajit. - Heightened Sensitivity:
Aggressive brushing can strip away enamel, exposing the dentin underneath, and leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
How Many Times Should You Brush in a Day?
Dentists advise brushing your teeth at least twice daily—once in the morning and once before bed. Dr. Satyajit emphasized, “Brushing post-meals aids in removing food debris and bacteria, but it’s essential not to brush immediately after consuming acidic foods or beverages, as this can further weaken tooth enamel.”
While regular brushing is vital for oral health maintenance, striking a balance and avoiding excessive brushing is crucial. Dr. Satyajit concluded, “Limiting brushing to two minutes and adhering to proper techniques can help prevent gum recession, enamel erosion, and other oral health concerns. By taking good care of your teeth, you can enjoy a healthy smile for years.”
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