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Brushing your teeth is very important for maintaining oral health, but brushing too often or using the wrong method can actually damage your teeth and lead to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even permanent damage. Experts warn that excessive or improper brushing combined with a diet high in acidic foods and drinks can lead to serious dental problems. In dentistry, erosion is the loss of tooth enamel or dentin due to acid attack from acidic foods, drinks, or acid reflux. Experts say: "As tooth enamel erodes, tooth structure is weakened, causing teeth to become smaller, more sensitive and more prone to pain." Acidic foods and drinks such as citrus fruits, sodas and certain fruit juices lower the pH of your mouth, especially below the critical pH level. Value of tooth enamel, which is 5.5. This causes calcium ions to leave the tooth enamel and damage the permanent tooth. Consuming and chewing acidic foods at the same time can accelerate this erosion process and ultimately lead to tooth sensitivity and pain.

You should brush your teeth for at least two hours after consuming acidic foods or drinks. For patients with mild enamel erosion, dentists can often repair the damage with a composite filling. However, if erosion worsens, treatment becomes more complicated. In moderate to severe cases, root canal treatment, inlays, crowns or veneers may be necessary. Not only can acidic foods damage tooth enamel, but excessive brushing or using incorrect methods can lead to a problem called wear and tear. Abrasion is most often caused by brushing your teeth horizontally with a hard toothbrush, which wears away tooth enamel, especially around the molar necks. This type of damage often manifests itself in the form of a plate defect and can increase tooth sensitivity. Experts recommend using a medium-soft or soft toothbrush with minimal abrasive content and avoiding horizontal brushing movements.

Experts also recommend using “basic techniques” or “modified basic techniques” that are gentler on teeth and gums. Follow the Bass Technique by holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, placing the bristles slightly above the gum line, and brushing gently in a circular motion for 15 to 20 minutes. Gently move the bristles toward the chewing surface to remove plaque and move on to the next tooth. Ultimately, protecting your teeth requires a combination of a conscious diet, good brushing habits, and regular dental checkups to catch any problems early.