Dentists Named Four Mistakes That Prevent Healthy Teeth 0 6

Everyone thinks they know how to brush their teeth properly: a couple of minutes in the morning and evening, rinse with water, and sometimes use mint mouthwash for freshness.

However, according to dentists, even the most disciplined people often make mistakes that negate the benefits of brushing, BBC reports. Dr. Pravin Sharma from the University of Birmingham's dental school stated that half of adults in the UK experience gum disease at least once, with bleeding being an early sign.

"If your gums bleed or swell, it's a signal that you need to brush better," he explains.

In addition to regular visits to the dentist, there are four mistakes that, according to Dr. Sharma and other doctors, many of us make. Correcting them can significantly improve the condition of teeth and gums.

1. Better to Brush Thoroughly Once Than to Rush Twice

The main dental rule is to brush your teeth twice a day. This is also recommended by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. But Dr. Sharma believes that quality is more important than quantity.

"If possible, brush twice a day. But if you have to choose between two quick brushes and one thorough one, it's better to do it once but well," he emphasized.

If you only brush once, he advises doing it in the evening and definitely using dental floss. Few people enjoy flossing, but Dr. Sharma recommends interdental brushes, especially rubber ones — they are easier to use and less painful.

Technique is important: each tooth has an outer, chewing, and inner surface — all three need to be cleaned. The movements should be small circles without applying too much pressure. Special attention should be given to the lines where the tooth meets the gums: this is where gingivitis develops.

Dr. Xand adds that brushing should be mindful — you need to "focus on the feeling of the bristles," not on your phone screen.

2. Brush Before Breakfast, Not After

Many people brush their teeth right after eating. But this can harm the enamel. "Ideally, brush before breakfast. You shouldn't do it right after acidic foods," explains Dr. Sharma.

If you do brush afterward, you need to wait. Acids from drinks and foods — especially fruit juices and coffee — soften the enamel, and brushing too soon can damage it. Dr. Chris advises rinsing your mouth with water after eating to partially remove the acid, and to brush your teeth no sooner than 30 minutes later.

3. Don’t Rinse Your Mouth After Brushing

If you're used to spitting, rinsing, and swishing your mouth after each time — it's time to reconsider this habit. "Spit, but don’t rinse," advises Dr. Sharma. Rinsing washes away the concentrated fluoride from the leftover toothpaste.

The correct approach is to simply spit out the excess and leave a thin layer of toothpaste on your teeth so that fluoride continues to protect the enamel.

4. Expensive Toothpaste Doesn’t Mean It’s the Best

The shelves are full of toothpaste: whitening, with charcoal, "for strengthening enamel." It's easy to think that the more expensive the toothpaste, the more beneficial it will be. But Dr. Sharma assures that the brand matters little if it contains one key ingredient — fluoride.

"If the toothpaste contains fluoride, it doesn’t matter much which one you choose," he says, adding that he himself buys the cheaper or on-sale ones. Fluoride protects enamel and prevents cavities — this is truly important.