We all believe we know how to brush our teeth—a thorough brushing morning and night, using water to rinse, and perhaps some mouthwash as an extra step.
However, as per dental experts, even the most diligent brushers could be committing some errors which may negate their good work.
One specialist points out that half of adults will experience gum disease at some point, and an early sign is gums that bleed.
"Should your gums bleed or swollen, it indicates your brushing technique needs improvement," he explains.
Along with frequent dental check-ups, these are four things many of us are currently getting wrong that, if we change, may enhance our dental well-being.
One Thorough Brushing Is Better Than Two Hasty Sessions
It's one of the great dental commandments—cleaning teeth two times daily—which is numerous organizations recommend.
However, the crucial factor lies in thoroughness, not frequency.
"Should you have the opportunity, then yes, brush twice," he says. "Yet, it's more effective to brush thoroughly once instead of twice quickly."
For those brushing once daily, it's suggested doing so at night and including flossing as well.
Naturally, flossing isn't popular, but using interdental brushes, particularly rubber ones, can simplify the process and less painful.
Regarding technique, every tooth features external, chewing, and internal sides, and all three need to be brushed.
Small circular motions across every area without applying too much pressure are recommended. Pay particular attention to the junction between the tooth and the gum, as that's where gum disease can occur.
Another expert says it's important to "pay attention to the brush feel" and approach tooth brushing mindfully, avoiding phone use at the same time.
Pre-Meal Brushing, Rather Than Post-Meal
Many people clean their teeth post-meal, but this may not benefit your enamel much good.
"Ideally, brush before breakfast," he says. "Avoid brushing after something acidic.
"If you do brush after, then you need to leave some space between eating and brushing."
This is due to acids from foods and drinks, like juices or coffee, can soften tooth enamel, and brushing too soon afterwards can wear it away.
Using water to rinse after eating to reduce acidity and delaying brushing for half an hour if you are brushing after breakfast is suggested.
Avoid Rinsing Post-Brushing
If you've been spitting, rinsing and gargling after every brush, you might want to rethink that last step.
"Spit out excess, but skip rinsing," he suggests. Rinsing your mouth washes away the concentrated fluoride left from toothpaste.
That means just spitting out extra and leaving the thin layer of fluoride behind to keep guarding teeth.
4. Expensive Toothpaste Isn't Better
With shelves full of whitening, charcoal, and enamel-boosting pastes, many presume more expensive choices deliver better oral health.
However, as per a professional, the brand isn't crucial which brand you choose, as long as it contains one key ingredient.
"If your paste contains fluoride, it doesn't make much difference," he says, adding that he tends to buy the most affordable option.
Fluoride shields enamel and prevents decay, and that's what really counts.
