In our daily lives, every tiny habit can unconsciously shape our health and future. Have you ever thought that even the simple act of brushing your teeth every morning and evening can hide the power that can change the fate of your oral health? Especially those brushing habits that are inadvertently formed year after year, such as horizontal brushing that many people are used to, may actually be quietly taking a toll on our teeth.
Imagine if one day, you find that your smile is no longer bright in front of the mirrorWhat happens if your teeth are worn, discoloured or even loose due to the wrong way of brushing? This is not alarmism, but a path that many may have inadvertently taken. But don't worry, understanding and changing the way we brush our teeth now can help us avoid it all.
In their daily oral care, many people use the horizontal brushing method, in which the bristles are parallel to the long axis of the teeth and quickly clean by wiggling from side to side. This approach may seem efficient, but it is actually risky.
Misconceptions about common practice debunked
A common practice for horizontal brushing is to quickly swing the bristles, which many believe will cover more of the tooth surface and remove dirt quickly. But in fact, this method often results in excessive brushing force, making it difficult for the bristles to bend properly into the gap between the teeth, and instead creating uneven pressure on the tooth surface.
Worries about tooth wear
Long-term lateral brushing, especially when too hard, can cause excessive wear and tear on the tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is a hard shell that protects teeth from bacteria, and once worn out, teeth become sensitive and susceptible to erosion and damage. More seriously, lateral brushing can cause dentin exposure below the gum line, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.
A hidden danger of gum recession
Brushing too hard not only hurts your teeth, but it can also cause damage to your gums. Brushing vigorously laterally can easily cause the gums to recede, exposing the root surface. Without enamel protection on the root surface, the root surface is more susceptible to damage and triggers tooth sensitivity and periodontal problems.
Insights from the control group study
According to oral health studies, people who brush their teeth horizontally for a long time have a significantly higher incidence of tooth and gum problems compared to the correct way of brushing. This data further confirms the potential hazards of horizontal brushing.
The structure of a tooth is not indestructible. In fact, tooth enamel – the hard tissue that covers the outermost layer of your teeth – is extremely sensitive to brushing patterns. When brushing horizontally, this seemingly innocuous action actually exerts continuous lateral pressure on the teeth. This not only causes enamel wear but also micro-cracks on the tooth surface, which can shorten the life of the tooth.
Damage to tooth enamel: irreversible wear and tear
The bristles of the toothbrush cause microscopic wear and tear on the enamel every time you brush your teeth laterally. While each damage may seem insignificant, the long-term accumulation can lead to a noticeable thinning of the tooth enamel. Not only does this make the teeth more susceptible to pigmentation, but it also increases sensitivity and makes it easier to feel discomfort when consuming hot and cold sweet and sour foods.
Structural changes in teeth: changes in morphology and function
Brushing horizontally not only affects the appearance of your teeth, but it can also change the natural shape of your teeth。As the enamel wears down gradually, the edges of the teeth may become irregular and the bite may also be affected. This not only affects aesthetics, but can also cause a decrease in chewing efficiency and even lead to jaw joint disorders.
Recession of the gums: a hidden health concern
Forceful lateral brushing movements can also cause gum recession. When the gum line recedes, the root part of the tooth is exposed, which is not only prone to the accumulation of plaque and food debris, but also can lead to erosion and infection of the root part. This process is not only painful but can lead to long-term dental health problems.
Brushing your teeth is a basic habit in your daily life, but proper brushing techniques are not well known. Here are some tips for brushing and oral health care based on dental research and clinical experience:
Choose the right brushing tool:
Toothbrush:Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that gently cleans the surface of your teeth to avoid damage to your gums and enamel.
Toothpaste:Fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay.
The right way to brush your teeth:
Brushing time:Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes each time to ensure a thorough clean.
Brushing angle:Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth so that you can clean the surface of your teeth and massage your gums.
Brushing action:Brush gently with circular motionsAvoid rapid lateral friction to reduce tooth wear.
Full Cleaning:
Clean between your teeth:Floss at least once a day to remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth.
Tongue Cleaning:The surface of the tongue may also harbor bacteria, and regular cleaning can reduce bad breath.
Regular oral check-ups:
Visit your dentist regularly for oral health check-ups and professional cleanings to prevent oral diseases.
Diet and lifestyle habits:
Reduce your intake of high-sugar foods and acidic drinks, which can accelerate tooth erosion.
Quit smoking, tobacco can cause tooth discoloration and oral health problems.