12 myths about your TEETH

Get the facts straight from the dental experts and help yourself to a healthier smile

- KAREN EVENETT

MYTH 1

For really clean teeth, use a toothbrush with hard bristles

You may think that giving your teeth a good hard scrub will have the most effect, but that’s not the case, warns Karen Coates, dental health adviser at the Oral Health Foundation. ‘Hard bristles can damage your gums and teeth. The best toothbrush is one with soft to medium bristles. This will effectively remove plaque and debris from your teeth, and protect your teeth and gums. In tests, electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual brushing.’

MYTH 2

Always rinse your mouth after brushing

No! ‘Don’t rinse with water,’ says Karen. ‘The fluoride in your toothpaste carries on working for around 40 minutes after you brush. If you rinse after brushing, you will wash the fluoride off your teeth before it’s had a chance to complete its job. If you want to use a mouthwash, use it at another time – away from your brushing – otherwise it may cancel the benefits of your toothpaste.’

MYTH 3

You should brush your teeth straight after every meal