Maintaining pearly whites can be a challenge, particularly as we age, but one dentist has pinpointed a common blunder that’s dulling our smiles.
Dr Ferakh Hamid of Aesthetique Dental Care advises: “Before you start brushing, it’s a good idea to wet your toothbrush. This little step makes it easier to spread the toothpaste all over your teeth, making cleaning more effective.”
He added: “Also, when you wet the bristles, they soften up. This means when you brush, it’s gentler on your gums and teeth, helping to avoid any irritation or damage. So, remember, a quick splash of water on your brush can make a big difference in keeping your mouth clean.”
The dental expert warned: “Brushing your teeth in certain ways, like without water or right after eating acidic foods, might actually make them look less white over time. Dry brushing might seem good for getting rid of surface stains at first, but without water, toothpaste doesn’t spread well, leading to dull teeth.”
“Also, brushing too soon after eating acidic foods can wear down your tooth enamel. This reveals the yellower layer beneath and makes your teeth look more yellow. This shows why brushing the right way and at the right time is key to keeping your teeth’s natural colour and shine.
“The acid softens the enamel, which might lead to sensitive teeth or make them change colour. To avoid this, it’s better to wait a while after eating acidic foods before you brush, ensuring your enamel stays strong and your teeth stay healthy.”
He told Gloucestershire Live: “For fresh breath and a healthy mouth, it’s important to have a good cleaning routine. This means brushing your teeth and gums softly for two minutes twice a day, using products like antimicrobial mouthwash or toothpaste to fight off germs, visiting your dentist regularly, cleaning your tongue every day, and taking care of any dentures you might have. Keeping up with these steps will help prevent dental problems and keep your mouth feeling great.”