question: Why is it warned to not brush your teeth more than 3 times a day?
comment: Toothpaste generally contains abrasives, so too much brushing can unduly wear your teeth or be harsh on your gums. There could be a possible concern about ingesting unnecessary amounts fluoride as well, but I think this would be a secondary consideration.
passages: Section::::Toothbrushing guidelines.:Frequency.
  
  Although there is a consensus that a thorough toothbrushing once a day is sufficient for maintaining oral health, most dentists recommend patients brush twice a day since a sufficient level of thoroughness in brushing is not normally achieved.
  
  Section::::Toothbrushing guidelines.:Proper technique.
   Another factor which affects the risk of developing cavities is the stickiness of foods. Some foods or sweets may stick to the teeth and so reduce the pH in the mouth for an extended time, particularly if they are sugary. It is important that teeth be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, to remove any food sticking to the teeth. Regular brushing and the use of dental floss also removes the dental plaque coating the tooth surface.
  
  Section::::Food and drink.:Chewing gum.
   Routine tooth brushing is the principal method of preventing many oral diseases, and perhaps the most important activity an individual can practice to reduce plaque buildup. Controlling plaque reduces the risk of the individual suffering from plaque-associated diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and caries – the three most common oral diseases. The average brushing time for individuals is between 30 seconds and just over 60 seconds. Many oral health care professionals agree that tooth brushing should be done for a minimum of two minutes, and be practiced at least twice a day. Brushing for at least two minutes per session is optimal for preventing the most common oral diseases, and removes considerably more plaque than brushing for only 45 seconds
   Between cleanings by a dental hygienist, good oral hygiene is essential for preventing tartar build-up which causes the problems mentioned above. This is done through careful, frequent brushing with a toothbrush, combined with the use of dental floss or interdental brushes to prevent accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Powered toothbrushes reduce dental plaque and gingivitis more than manual toothbrushing in both short and long term. Further evidence is needed to determine the clinical importance of these findings.
   BULLET::::2. Gingival diseases of viral origin
  
  BULLET::::3. Gingival diseases of fungal origin
  
  BULLET::::4. Gingival diseases of genetic origin
  
  BULLET::::5. Gingival manifestations of systemic conditions
  
  BULLET::::6. Traumatic lesions
  
  BULLET::::7. Foreign body reactions
  
  BULLET::::8. Not otherwise specified
  
  Section::::Prevention.
  
  Gingivitis can be prevented through regular oral hygiene that includes daily brushing and flossing. Hydrogen peroxide, saline, alcohol or chlorhexidine mouth washes may also be employed. In a 2004 clinical study, the beneficial effect of hydrogen peroxide on gingivitis has been highlighted. The use of oscillation type brushes might reduce the risk of gingivitis compared to manual brushing.
   The extent to which tooth decay is likely, known as cariogenicity, depends on factors such as how long the sugar remains in the mouth. Contrary to common belief, it is not the amount of sugar ingested but the frequency of sugar ingestion that is the most important factor in the causation of tooth decay. When the pH in the mouth initially decreases from the ingestion of sugars, the enamel is demineralized and left vulnerable for about 30 minutes. Eating a greater quantity of sugar in one sitting does not increase the time of demineralization. Similarly, eating a lesser quantity of sugar in one sitting does not decrease the time of demineralization. Thus, eating a great quantity of sugar at one time in the day is less detrimental than is a very small quantity ingested in many intervals throughout the day. For example, in terms of oral health, it is better to eat a single dessert at dinner time than to snack on a bag of candy throughout the day.
   Poor oral hygiene is a great factor to take under consideration when it comes to oral problems and even more in people with diabetes. Diabetic people are advised to brush their teeth at least twice a day, and if possible, after all meals and snacks. However, brushing in the morning and at night is mandatory as well as flossing and using an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Individuals who suffer from diabetes are recommended to use toothpaste that contains fluoride as this has proved to be the most efficient in fighting oral infections and tooth decay. Flossing must be done at least once a day, as well because it is helpful in preventing oral problems by removing the plaque between the teeth, which is not removed when brushing.
   Section::::Diagnosis.
  
  Early diagnosis and treatment is important to allow for prompt treatment to prevent long-term consequences such as tooth loss.
  
  A diagnosis can be made by a urine analysis for low/no activity of the enzyme cathepsin C.
   According to a tracking survey conducted by the Ad Council, less than half of children currently brush their teeth as often or as long as dental health experts recommend. Oral disease disproportionately affects children from low-income families and these children have almost twice the number of decayed teeth as compared to others in the general population.
   BULLET::::- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  
  BULLET::::- Vomiting, e.g. bulimia, alcoholism
  
  BULLET::::- Rumination
  
  BULLET::::- Eructation (burping)
  
  BULLET::::- Dietary - liquids of low pH and high titratable acids.
  
  Section::::Causes.:Abfraction.
   Maintaining a balanced oral microflora is important for total wellness. The best way to maintain this environment is with proper oral hygiene. Insufficient brushing and flossing can lead to gum and tooth disease, and eventually tooth loss. In addition, poor dental hygiene has been linked to conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Some diseases and medications are known to limit salivary flow, making it easier for bacteria to overgrow in the mouth without being washed away. To prevent any possible side effects from poor oral hygiene, it is important to brush and floss every day, schedule regular cleanings, eat a healthy diet and use a recently-replaced toothbrush.
   As to the frequency of cleaning, research on this matter is inconclusive. That is, it has "neither" been shown that more frequent cleaning leads to better outcomes "nor" that it does not. A review of the research literature on the question concluded "[t]he research evidence is not of sufficient quality to reach any conclusions regarding the beneficial and adverse effects of routine scaling and polishing for periodontal health and regarding the effects of providing this intervention at different time intervals". Thus, any general recommendation for a frequency of routine cleaning (e.g. every six months, every year) has no empirical basis. Moreover, as economists have pointed out, private dentists (or other dental professionals) have an economic incentive to recommend frequent cleaning, because it increases their revenues.
   Daily brushing must include brushing of both the teeth and gums. Effective brushing itself, will prevent progression of both dental decay and gum diseases. Neutralising acids after eating and at least twice a day brushing with fluoridated toothpaste will assist preventing dental decay. Stimulating saliva flow assists in the remineralisation process of teeth, this can be done by chewing sugar free gum. Using an interdental device once daily will assist prevention of gum diseases.
   Patients need to be aware of the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth daily. New parents need to be educated to promote healthy habits in their children.
  
  Section::::Sources of problems.
  
  Section::::Sources of problems.:Plaque.
   There are a number of common oral hygiene misconceptions. It is not correct to rinse the mouth with water after brushing. It is also not recommended to brush immediately after drinking acidic substances, including sparkling water. It is also recommended to floss once a day, with a different piece of floss at each flossing session. The Effectiveness of Tooth Mousse is in debate. Visits to a dentist for a checkup every year at least are recommended.
  
  Section::::Culinary (food) hygiene.
   These bacterial strains, most notably "S. mutans", can be inherited by a child from a caretaker's kiss or through feeding premasticated.
  
  Section::::Cause.:Dietary sugars.
   Gingival recession and cervical tooth wear can be avoided by healthy dietary and oral hygiene practices. By using a non-traumatic toothbrushing technique (i.e. a recommended technique such as the modified Bass technique rather than indiscriminately brushing the teeth and gums in a rough scrubbing motion) will help prevent receding gums and tooth wear around the cervical margin of teeth. Non-abrasive toothpaste should be used, and brushing should be carried out no more than twice per day for two minutes on each occasion. Excessive use of acidic conditions around the teeth should be avoided by limiting consumption of acidic foods and drinks, and seeking medical treatment for any cause of regurgitation/reflux of stomach acid. Importantly, the teeth should not be brushed immediately after acidic foods or drinks. A non-abrasive diet will also help to prevent tooth wear. Flossing each day also helps to prevent gum recession caused by gum disease.
   Although disease is possible through oral interactions, there are many ways to prevent or at least reduce the risk of infection and disease. Brushing and flossing teeth regularly are the most basic ways to reduce these risks. These two fundamental hygiene tips help to get rid of bacteria that try to stick to surfaces in our mouth to form plaque (oral biofilms). Brushing and flossing the teeth are critical because they disrupt biofilms and their ability to permanently damage the teeth or gums. The less you brush your teeth, the better chance that bacteria will form plaque and potentially cause serious oral and health issues.
   There are many ways to improve the oral cleaning process. One basic and obvious way is to make sure the toothbrush is clean. Some dentists recommend methods of cleaning, such as putting toothbrushes in dishwashers or microwave ovens. Much of the bacteria will be killed off using these methods, either when exposed to cleansing agents or air, but also increase the possibility of damaging the toothbrush in the process. Though cleaning a toothbrush will ensure that the small amount of bacteria left on it will be killed, the American Dental Association advises that one should replace a toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to four months. The Journal of the American Dental Association suggests a few “common-sense” ways to stay healthier in relation to toothbrush care: “don’t share toothbrushes, thoroughly rinse the toothbrush with tap water after use to remove any toothpaste and debris, store the toothbrush in an upright position if possible and allow it to air-dry, when storing more than one brush, keep them separated so that germs are not transferred from one brush to another, and don’t routinely cover or store toothbrushes in closed containers. A moist environment helps the growth of most germs.” By taking care of one's toothbrush, sicknesses from bacteria can be greatly reduced.
   Dental decay is the most common chronic childhood disease in America, with more than 16 million children in the U.S. suffering from untreated tooth decay. Nationwide, oral disease causes kids to miss 51 million school hours and their parents to lose 25 million work hours annually.
   Chewy and sticky foods (such as candy, cookies, potato chips, and crackers) tend to adhere to teeth longer. However, dried fruits such as raisins and fresh fruit such as apples and bananas disappear from the mouth quickly, and do not appear to be a risk factor. Consumers are not good at guessing which foods stick around in the mouth.
   Section::::Current Activities.
  
  For the inaugural National Brush Day in 2013, the campaign launched new Kids’ Healthy Mouths social media accounts.
  
  Section::::Partners.
  
  BULLET::::- The Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Healthy Lives
  
  BULLET::::- Ad Council
  
  BULLET::::- Grey New York
  
  Section::::Response.
  
  Since the launch of the Kids’ Healthy Mouths campaign in 2012, the Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Healthy Lives and the Ad Council published research that indicated significantly more parents report that their kids are brushing their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.
   Toothbrushing can only clean to a depth of about 1.5 mm inside the gingival pockets, but a sustained regime of plaque removal above the gum line can affect the ecology of the microbes below the gums and may reduce the number of pathogens in pockets up to 5 mm in depth.
   Teeth cleaning
  
  Teeth cleaning is part of oral hygiene and involves the removal of dental plaque from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontal disease. People routinely clean their own teeth by brushing and interdental cleaning, and dental hygienists can remove hardened deposits (tartar) not removed by routine cleaning. Those with dentures and natural teeth may supplement their cleaning with a denture cleaner.
  
  Section::::Brushing, scrubbing and flossing.
  
  Section::::Brushing, scrubbing and flossing.:Brushing.
  
  Careful and frequent brushing with a toothbrush helps to prevent build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth.
   Section::::Limitations.:Compared to insulin index.
  
raw_presuppositions: Brushing teeth more often will get better results.
raw_corrections: Toothpaste contains abrasives that can wear down teeth and gums.