If you have a heavy hand with your toothbrush, you may be doing more harm than good to your teeth and gums. Results of a recent study published in the May 2003 "Journal of Clinical Periodontology" found that people who use too much pressure or brush for too long may increase their risk of oral health problems.

While the study focused on electric toothbrushes, the findings also apply to people using ordinary toothbrushes. By using a combination of the length of brushing time and the pressure applied, researchers discovered that brushing longer than two minutes at a pressure greater than 150 grams (about the weight of an orange) didn´t remove additional plaque, but did increase the chances of abrasion of tooth enamel or gums.

If you´re not sure of the best way to care for your teeth and gums, ask your dentist or dental hygienist to demonstrate the best brushing technique, including how much pressure to exert and how long to brush. The American Dental Association suggests brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and flossing once a day.

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