Can you brush your teeth too much? Signs you might be overdoing it

From an early age we’re told the same thing – brush your teeth twice a day. Seems pretty simple, right? But is it possible to take this too far and go overboard with brushing? The answer is yes, you could be doing more harm than good.

What does over-brushing look like, and why is it a problem?

We all want that clean, fresh feeling that comes from brushing, but brushing too often or too aggressively can wear down tooth enamel (that’s the protective outer layer of your teeth) and irritate your gums. Once enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back.

And damaged gums? They can recede, exposing sensitive parts of your teeth and increasing your risk of decay. So yes, brushing is essential, but more isn’t always better.

Signs you might be over-brushing

Not sure if you’re overdoing it? Here are a few signs to look out for:

Your gums are red or bleeding regularly – Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, but if you’re brushing too hard or too often, you might be irritating your gums and causing them to bleed unnecessarily.
Your teeth feel more sensitive – Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods, can be caused by enamel erosion or gum recession, both of which can be worsened by overbrushing.
Your toothbrush bristles are frayed too quickly – If your toothbrush looks worn out after a few weeks, it might be a sign you’re using too much pressure. A toothbrush should generally last 3 to 4 months.
Your gums seem to be pulling away from your teeth – Receding gums are a major indicator of overbrushing and can lead to exposed tooth roots, which aren’t protected by enamel.
You’re brushing more than three times a day – Twice a day is generally enough, morning and night. A third brush after lunch can be okay (especially if you’ve eaten something sticky or sugary), but anything more than that is probably unnecessary.

Are you using the right tooth-brushing technique?

Sometimes it’s not just how often you brush, but how you brush. Here are a few quick tips to keep your teeth clean, without causing damage:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Medium and hard bristles can be too abrasive.
Angle the brush at 45 degrees to your gum line.
Use gentle, circular motions, rather than a sawing back-and-forth motion.
Avoid applying too much pressure—think of it more like a massage than a scrub.
Spend around 2 minutes brushing, twice a day. And don’t forget to replace your toothbrush (or brush head, if you use an electric toothbrush) every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

The role of toothpaste

Did you know that even your toothpaste can play a role in over-brushing damage? Some whitening or tartar-control toothpastes can be more abrasive than standard ones. If you’re brushing hard with a gritty toothpaste, you could be speeding up enamel wear. If you’re not sure what’s best for your teeth, ask your dentist at your next check-up—they’ll point you in the right direction.

So, how regularly do you need to brush your teeth?

Brush twice a day: once in the morning, once before bed.
Floss once a day: preferably at night.
Use mouthwash if recommended by your dentist, but it’s not a replacement for brushing or flossing.

Don’t forget to check in with your dentist

If you think you’ve been over-brushing, or your teeth just don’t feel right, it’s a good idea to check in with your dentist. They can check for any damage and help you adjust your routine to protect your teeth for the long term.

At The Practice, we’re not just here for check-ups and cleans, we’re here to help you understand oral health, and to make sure your daily habits are working for you. If you’ve got questions about your brushing technique, tooth sensitivity, or the best products you use, book an appointment with our friendly team. We’re happy to help!