Dr. Ferakh Hamid Shares the Common Mistakes You Might Be Making in Your Oral Care Routine

If you're tired of your smile losing its radiance, a dentist has revealed the typical mistakes you're likely making when it comes to taking care of your oral health. We all know how disheartening it can be when your teeth turn yellow and lose their sparkle.

There's a saying that a smile can light up a room, and it’s often the first thing people notice about you. But if your teeth are less than perfect, there could be a few habits you're unknowingly getting wrong.

Dr. Ferakh Hamid, a dentist with over 20 years of experience in the UK, is urging people across the globe to rethink their oral care routine. He suggests making just a few simple adjustments in the morning and evening that can greatly improve your oral health.

While professional whitening treatments at the dentist are an option, Dr. Hamid believes tackling the issue with some easy, natural methods might be the most affordable and effective first step to take.

The expert highlights one mistake that most people make: improper preparation of their toothbrush before brushing. Now, you might assume that there’s only one way to prepare a toothbrush, but Dr. Hamid explains that’s not the case.

Have you ever brushed your teeth without wetting your brush first, applying toothpaste directly to a dry brush? If so, you’re not alone. Many people make this mistake.

According to Dr. Hamid, it’s essential to wet your toothbrush properly before applying toothpaste. If you don’t use enough water, the toothpaste won't spread evenly, and more worryingly, it can actually stain your teeth. This is one of the leading causes of yellowing teeth, which might sound surprising to many.

Dr. Hamid also warns against brushing your teeth too soon after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Doing so can contribute to your teeth turning yellow as well. He stated in an interview with the Daily Mail, "Brushing your teeth in certain ways, such as without water or immediately after eating acidic foods, can actually make your teeth look dull and less white over time."

These practices may make your teeth appear less bright. He elaborated further, "While dry brushing may seem effective for removing surface stains initially, without water, the toothpaste doesn't spread properly."

Another issue is brushing right after eating acidic foods. At that moment, your enamel is often weakened, and brushing may do more harm than good. Instead of cleaning, you might just be spreading the acid around your mouth.

Dr. Hamid added that wetting your toothbrush can actually be beneficial for maintaining a shiny, white smile. "When you wet the bristles, they soften, making the brushing experience gentler on both your gums and teeth. This helps prevent irritation and possible damage."

In addition to wetting your toothbrush properly, Dr. Hamid stresses the importance of brushing for two minutes twice a day and not rushing through the process. Taking the time to brush thoroughly will ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy.

You should also make it a habit to clean your tongue at least once a day. Regular dental check-ups are key to staying on top of your oral health and catching any potential problems early on.

“Following these steps will help prevent dental issues and keep your mouth feeling fresh,” Dr. Hamid concluded.

Though it might seem odd at first to soak your toothbrush, incorporating these simple tips into your daily routine could make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your teeth. Give Dr. Hamid's advice a try, and you may just see brighter, healthier teeth soon.