Unexpected risks of using too much toothpaste revealed

Leading dental experts claim that too many people may be making basic mistakes in their dental health routine.

In a recent interview with NBC, dental hygiene specialist, Lancette VanGuilder, said that some people use too much toothpaste. While flooding your mouth with toothpaste might leave the sensation of thoroughness, too much is not just wasteful but also potentially harmful.

According to these findings, the truth may be that less could equate to more, and that only a ‘pea-sized’ quantity on a brush is necessary during each mouth cleanse.

Toothpaste has been proven to bring many advantages. Its fluoride properties strengthen enamel while also improving breath with a minty freshness. In itself though, it will not eliminate the sticky biofilms of bacteria that appear both on and in between teeth. The real work of removing food debris and attacking plaque is achieved through brushing and flossing.

What is the issue with excessive toothpaste?

Researchers claim that the surfactant detergents it contains can lull users into assuming the cleanse is complete, when in fact a more robust approach is needed. Too much foam can obscure bleeding gums, which might be a symptom of gingivitis and require a dental appointment. This gum disease is reversible but needs to be identified early.

It is recommended to use a toothpaste containing fluoride, and to complete a twice-a-day brushing routine that lasts around two minutes each time, with all-access soft bristles if you have sensitive gums. This should be accompanied by a conventional or water floss.

If you are unsure about the most suitable oral hygiene techniques, contact our team at Art of Dental Care. We are leading providers of services such as dental implants in Chester.