Brushing your teeth is one of the best ways to protect your smile—but did you know that it’s possible to brush too hard? While good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities and gum disease, aggressive brushing can actually harm your teeth and gums over time. If you’ve noticed increased sensitivity or receding gums, you might be brushing with more force than necessary.

Here’s how to tell if you’re brushing too hard and what you can do to keep your smile healthy.

If you love sweets, you know how hard it can be to resist that cookie after lunch or a late-night scoop of ice cream. Unfortunately, your sweet tooth can take a toll on your dental health. Sugar is one of the main culprits behind cavities—it feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth that produce acids, which in turn eat away at tooth enamel. But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up your favorite treats to keep your teeth healthy. With the right habits, you can protect your smile and still enjoy a little indulgence. Here’s how to avoid cavities when you have a sweet tooth.