Is Poor Brushing Affecting Your Teeth?

Whilst we all know that we need to brush our teeth at least twice a day to prevent plaque and tooth discolouration, it would seem that many of us still don’t know how to brush our teeth properly. 

According to 2 studies by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, after assessing 2,000 15-16, 31-35, 60-65 and 76-80 year olds, researchers discovered only 1 in 10 knew how to brush their teeth effectively to prevent tooth decay.

From not brushing their teeth twice a day, to rinsing out their mouth straight after brushing (thus diluting the protective effect of the fluoride toothpaste), dentists we shocked to find that 90% of participants were not looking after their teeth properly.

And whilst missing the occasional brushing may feel like nothing, overtime this lack of maintenance can lead to plaque, cavities, weakened enamel and tooth discolouration.

How to brush your teeth correctly

The British Dental Association has got a number of tips to help improve the health and appearance of your teeth:

1. Use a small head on your toothbrush as this will make it easier to remove food from all the nooks and crannies.

2. Opt for a medium or soft brush.

3. The best way to brush your teeth is to use a circular action (not up and down) and make sure you take your time on each area and that you reach to the back of your mouth (this is where bacteria usually accumulates).

4. Clean your teeth for a minimum of 2 minutes twice a day.

5. Your toothpaste should contain a fluoride concentration of at least 1,350ppm.

6. Floss between your teeth in the evening to remove the build up of detritus.

However if you’re still worried that you are not cleaning your teeth properly the British Dental Association recommend doing the following every time you brush:

• Placing the head of the toothbrush against your teeth, tilt the bristle at a 45 degree angle to your gum line.
• Begin moving your brush in a circular motion several times over each tooth, making sure you cover the entire area of the tooth.
• Brush the outer surfaces of your teeth with your bristles angled at 45 degrees to your gums.
• Use this same method to brush the inside of your teeth.
• To clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth, tilt your toothbrush vertically and make small circular strokes with the front part of your brush.
• Lastly brush your tongue as this will help to freshen your breath and keep your mouth clean as it will remove bacteria.

Note: every time you’re ill you should change your toothbrush.

Follow this dental plan and you can ensure that your teeth stay clean and healthy. However if your teeth have been overexposed to staining foods and drinks to the point that your toothbrush cannot readily remove it, then teeth whitening may be able to help.

Made from 16% Carbamide Peroxide (the same concentration as dentists), Dr Georges Dental White can help to convert coloured compounds into colourless compounds and help to whiten your teeth by up to 11 shades.