Think you know everything about looking after your teeth? Think again.

 

Spit and DON’T RINSE

Too many of us after brushing our teeth, are guilty of rinsing with water. If you rinse your mouth with water after brushing your teeth, you’re washing away the fluoride that helps harden your teeth. Fluoride is vital for a healthy smile, and rinsing it away can make your teeth more susceptible to decay.

Don’t brush your teeth right away!

If you eat anything with sugar or carbohydrates in it, the enzymes in the mouth create an acid. These acids can weaken the surface of the teeth making decay likely. Sugary drinks or fruit juice are highly acidic. They can dissolve the very outer layers of the teeth. Brushing on these weakened layers means that you will start brushing this surface away. If you really want to brush your teeth afterward, try waiting around 20 minutes first. Or, if you can wait, rinse with water or mouthwash before doing so.

Don’t be so hard on yourself!

No seriously, stop brushing your teeth so hard. Just because you’re brushing hard, doesn’t mean you’re brushing better. If you brush too hard, you may end up with receding gums or weakened enamel. It will also make brushing sore! Brush gently in circular strokes to help prevent build-up of bacteria and plaque. Some electrical toothbrushes have lights that glow when you’re pressing too hard against your teeth, too!

Get rid of that old toothbrush… NOW!

When was the last time you changed your toothbrush? If you can’t remember, now is a great time to treat yourself to a new one. Toothbrushes should be changed every 2 to 3 months. Toothbrushes harbour bacteria so it’s a good idea to switch them up often. It’s even more important to get a new toothbrush if you’ve been unwell!

Are you Team Wet or Team Dry?

We looked at this debate on Facebook a few weeks ago. Brushing your teeth with a wet toothbrush dilutes the fluoride in toothpaste, making it less effective. Having a dry toothbrush when brushing means that there is more friction. It also means that the fluoride is not diluted, making the toothpaste more effective for you. Dry toothbrushes are the best for your teeth!

Skipping out on dental appointments!

The worst possible thing you can do to your teeth. While you might be brushing at home, you still need to visit the dentist. Dentists are able to spot many different problems in your mouth, whether they’re dental problems or general health problems.

If you need to find a dentist, you can do so at www.defactodentists.com. We have thousands of dentists listed on our website that are ready and waiting to treat you! Within a few moments you can find your perfect dentist. It all starts with a simple location search.