Poor Brushing Technique Leads to Tooth Sensitivity
Most of us are aware that it is important to brush our teeth twice a day, but a good brushing technique is equally important and brushing too hard can actually cause long-term problems.
Improper brushing can cause the gums to recede, which increases the risk of tooth sensitivity, an extremely common problem.
Winnipeg dental hygienist, Mary Bertone, said that she sees a lot of people who experience sensitivity as a result of a poor brushing technique and diet. In recent years, people have started drinking more fizzy drinks, which tend to be acidic and cause the enamel to be worn down and damaged. Bertone also said that it was worrying that some people are bleaching their teeth on a regular basis without supervision or treatment provided by trained dental professionals.
Most dentists and dental hygienists ask patients about their brushing technique when they notice signs of sensitivity and swapping to a soft brush can be very beneficial. Often, people think the harder they brush, the better the clean, but this is not the case and brushing too firmly can damage the enamel.
Ontario dentist Dr David Mady said that fast brushing causes the teeth to become hot, increasing sensitivity. Teaching people proper brushing techniques is the most effective way of preventing sensitivity, but Dr Mady said that it was important for patients to see their dentist if they suffer from sensitivity on a regular or prolonged basis. Sensitivity to liquids and hot air may be caused by problems affecting the root canals, in which case root canal therapy may be required.
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