Brushing our teeth too hard in bid to get a dazzling smile could be the cause of a surge in gum problems, experts warn Experts say celebrities and marketing have made people more aware of their oral health and the look of their teeth Over vigorous brushing can lead to the wearing away of gums, causing painfully sensitive teeth and even the need for grafts Among adults aged 18 to 35 more than 80 per cent have unhealthily receding gums, a study found However dentists stress that disease is the main cause of shrinking gums