Dentist explains teeth brushing mistake that 'yellows' your smile when overlooked

Many strive for a sparkling white smile by using teeth whiteners, but one brushing mistake could be making them look less white.

Bypassing one key detail could be keeping you from pearly whites, according to one dentist. Dr Ferakh Hamid from Aesthetique Dental Care has pointed out an overlooked mistake that leads to yellowing.

It may seem like a no brainer, but it's important to wet your toothbrush. Doing so makes cleaning your teeth more effective, but the dentist also notes the times we should delay brushing our teeth as well.

As reported by Bristol Live, Dr Hamid said: "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.

"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."

Be mindful of when you brush as well. Dr Hamid went on to explain that brushing after eating acidic foods can lead to more sensitive and yellow teeth.

The dentist noted: "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."

So, if you've had acidic food and drink like fizz, juice, or tomatoes, there's a good reason to wait. As Dr Hamid says: "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."

Good teeth hygiene is maintained through a good routine - and don't put off visiting the dentist. He concluded: "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."

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