We all think we know how to take care of our teeth — a quick brush in the morning, another before bed, a rinse with water, and maybe a minty mouthwash for freshness.
But according to dental experts, even the most diligent brushers may be making a few mistakes that undo their good work.
Dr. Praveen Sharma, from the University of Birmingham’s School of Dentistry, says that half of adults in the UK will experience gum disease at some point, and early signs include bleeding or swelling of the gums.
“If your gums are bleeding or swollen, it’s a sign you need to brush better,” he explains.
Speaking to BBC’s What’s Up Docs podcast hosts Dr. Xand and Dr. Chris van Tulleken, Dr. Sharma highlights several common mistakes that many of us make — and how correcting them can significantly improve oral health.
🦷 1. One good brush beats two quick ones
It’s one of dentistry’s golden rules — brushing twice a day — and the NHS still recommends it.
However, Dr. Sharma says that quality matters more than quantity.
“If you can find time, yes, brush properly twice a day,” he says. “But it’s better to do one thorough brushing and one quick one than two rushed attempts.”
If you can only brush and floss thoroughly once a day, he suggests doing it in the evening.
He also recommends using interdental brushes instead of floss, as they are easier and less painful to use.
When brushing, make small circular motions on each tooth surface — outer, biting, and inner — without too much pressure. Pay special attention to where the tooth meets the gum, since that’s where gum disease starts.
Dr. Xand adds: “Focus on the sensation of the bristles. Don’t scroll on your phone while brushing — do it mindfully.”
🍽️ 2. Brush before breakfast, not after
Many people brush right after eating, but that could be damaging their enamel.
“Ideally, brush before breakfast,” says Dr. Sharma. “You don’t want to do it right after something acidic.”
Acidic foods and drinks — like orange juice or coffee — soften tooth enamel, and brushing too soon afterward can wear it away.
If you prefer brushing after breakfast, wait at least 30 minutes, or rinse your mouth with water to remove acids first.
🚫 3. Don’t rinse after brushing
If you’ve been rinsing and gargling after brushing, it might be time to stop.
“You should spit but not rinse with water,” advises Dr. Sharma.
Rinsing washes away the concentrated fluoride left on your teeth, which continues protecting them after brushing.
If you want to rinse your mouth, use a fluoride mouthwash, not plain water.
💰 4. Expensive toothpaste isn’t necessarily better
With store shelves full of whitening, charcoal, and “enamel-boosting” toothpastes, it’s easy to assume that pricier means healthier.
But according to Dr. Sharma, what truly matters is just one key ingredient — fluoride.
“As long as your toothpaste has fluoride, it doesn’t make much difference,” he says, adding that he usually buys whatever is cheaper or on offer.
Fluoride protects enamel and prevents decay — and that’s what really counts.
This insight from BBC shows that oral care is not about routine, but technique.
Many people — especially in regions like the Balkans — brush twice a day but do it too quickly or with excessive pressure, damaging the gums instead of protecting them.
The key to healthy teeth lies in mindful brushing, not mechanical repetition.
Brushing before breakfast, avoiding rinsing after brushing, and using fluoride-based toothpaste are the most effective habits for long-term dental health.