Brits warned to take care when brushing their teeth.

Brits have been advised to take care when brushing their teeth, as failure to do so could see them needing to make a trip to the emergency dentist.

The Irish Independent reported many people brush their teeth too hard and this can be one of the most damaging actions a person can take.

Over-brushing or doing so too vigorously can wear down the enamel of the teeth and this in turn can lead to increased sensitivity or a greater likelihood of decay.

Furthermore, failing to brush properly can result in an increased chance of developing gum disease. Signs of gum disease include swollen gums, bleeding after brushing, bad breath or loose teeth.

However, some toothpastes could also be to blame, as ones that are too abrasive – such as some “tartar control” pastes – can damage both the enamel and the gums.

Elsewhere, the Victoria Advocate recently reported misaligned teeth can be a major cause of tooth loss and this is why grinding of teeth can be a serious problem.