You've been brushing your teeth wrong - dentist points out 'damaging' mistakes

Doctor Zaeem has urged Brits to quit several bad habits which could put you at risk of getting cavities and damaging your teeth and gums - even if you think it's helping your oral hygiene

From brushing to flossing and even using mouthwash - apparently we're getting it all wrong.

With more than 12 million people unable to access NHS dental care last year and 90 per cent of dental practices no longer accepting new NHS adult patients, looking after your oral health is more important than ever. We might think that giving our nashers a two minute brush in the morning and evening is all that's needed to keep our pearly whites clean, but it's a bit more complicated than that.

Doctor Zaeem from dental brand Ordo has warned of six common mistakes you're probably guilty of without even realising, and they could be causing harm to your teeth and gums.

1. Mouthwashing at the wrong time

While many people mouthwash straight after brushing their teeth, this actually 'washes away the concentrated flouride' leftover from our toothpaste, 'diluting and it reducing its full effects'. "If you want to rinse with mouthwash, wait a little while or choose a different time," Dr Zaeem advises. "The best time to use mouthwash is right after you eat to freshen your breath and wash away any acidic foods."

2. Replacing brush heads

It's a chore most of us completely abandon, but if you have an electric toothbrush - you should be changing the heads around every two to three months. As Dr Zaeem, points out, failing to do so will means the brush heads will be worn out. "This means that they will be less effective at cleaning, more susceptible to contamination and potentially damaging to teeth and gums," they added.

3. Using an electric brush like a manual

Brushing your teeth with a sonic brush is actually a totally different ball game than using a manual brush. You shouldn't be manically brushing back and fourth with an electric brush, and instead place the appliance on each tooth at a 45 degree angle and hold it still for three-five seconds before moving on.

"Electric toothbrushes are there to do the job for you, so using it like a manual toothbrush and brushing too hard will cause damage to your gums," the dentist explained. "It can also cause your gums to recede, resulting in tooth loss."

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4. Flossing

Flossing is a great way to get rid of plaque etched between teeth and stuck under our gums (aka all the places that toothbrushes can't reach). It is linked to a reduce risk of cavities, which directly relate to tooth loss if not treated. Dentists recommend flossing at least once a day, preferably at night before you brush your teeth - not after.

5. Brushing in the shower

If you're guilty of this convenient habit, it's time to quit cold turkey. "Moisture in the shower can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow," Dr Zaeem warns. "This means that your perfectly clean toothbrush is now exposed to bacteria and therefore so is your mouth. The heat from the shower can also damage the bristles on a toothbrush!"

6. Over-complicating your routine

Sites like TikTok are now infiltrated with a slew of questionable products that promise amazing results for your teeth. We're talking purple toothpaste that 'colour corrects' your yellow nashers white, or coconut oil pulling that can 'reverse' cavities.

The reality is, you just need a reliable toothpaste from a recommended brand, as well as a mouthwash and floss. "It's the routine that counts," stressed Dr Zaeem. " Two minutes, twice a day, easy!

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