Two brushing mistakes that may be turning your teeth yellow, says dentist

Wetting your brush and timing your brushing right could prevent yellow teeth—are you making these common mistakes?

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A bright, white smile is often seen as a sign of good health and confidence. But for many, yellowing teeth remain a frustrating problem, even with regular brushing. Now, a leading dentist has revealed that common brushing mistakes could be making the issue worse, rather than better.

Dr Ferakh Hamid from Aesthetique Dental Care warns that two everyday habits may be contributing to discolouration, preventing people from achieving a sparkling smile. The good news? They are easy to fix.

Mistake 1: Brushing with a dry toothbrush

Many believe that using a dry toothbrush helps toothpaste work more effectively. However, Dr Hamid explains that this is a myth. A dry toothbrush can be too harsh on enamel and doesn’t allow toothpaste to spread evenly, reducing its cleaning power.

“Before you start brushing, wetting your toothbrush slightly helps the toothpaste distribute more effectively across your teeth, making for a better clean,” Dr Hamid advises.

A simple splash of water before brushing can help protect enamel and enhance the effectiveness of your brushing routine.

Mistake 2: Brushing too soon after eating

Timing matters when it comes to brushing. Many people brush immediately after eating, especially after consuming acidic foods or drinks like fruit juice, fizzy drinks, or citrus fruits. However, this can actually cause more harm than good.

“Acidic foods temporarily soften enamel, making it more vulnerable to damage. Brushing straight away can wear down this protective layer, leading to increased staining over time,” Dr Hamid warns.

Instead, he recommends waiting at least an hour after eating before brushing. In the meantime, rinsing with water or chewing sugar-free gum can help neutralise acids and protect your teeth.

Small changes, big impact

By making these simple adjustments—wetting your toothbrush and waiting before brushing after meals—you can protect your enamel and maintain a whiter, healthier smile.