Should you brush your gums when brushing your teeth?

To a point: As you brush your teeth at the gumline, you will invariably also brush your gums. Use a soft bristle toothbrush, and don't overdo it, since excessive brushing can cause tooth abrasion and gum recession.

Absolutely!: Brushing your gums, especially where the tooth and gum meets, is very important to prevent tooth decay. One of the worst types of tooth decay is when it occurs at the gum line, and it is called "root decay". The protective enamel layer for the tooth ends where the gum starts, so the tooth is weakest around the gum line. If you have receding gums, exposed roots have no protection: Brush gum line!