German dentist Markus Felber shared tips on proper dental care and dispelled common mistakes that many people make.
One of the most popular myths is the need to brush your teeth immediately after eating. The doctor warns: you shouldn't do this. The fact is that after eating, tooth enamel is covered with a temporary acid coating, which is restored over time. If you start brushing your teeth immediately, it can damage the enamel and make your teeth more sensitive.
Also, don't think that eating an apple can replace a toothbrush. Although apples do clean the mouth mechanically, their acidity can damage enamel, especially if eaten regularly without rinsing your mouth afterwards.
Another common mistake is brushing technique: brushing from the gums to the teeth can irritate and even damage the mucous membrane. Felber recommends replacing this method with a gentler left-to-right motion, which is safer for removing plaque.
Additionally, the dentist does not recommend frequent use of baking soda or bleaching agents for cleaning — this can thin the enamel and cause long-term problems. Instead, the specialist advises paying attention to daily use of dental floss — it is this that effectively cleans the spaces between the teeth, where food debris most often accumulates.
Such simple changes in daily hygiene will help keep your smile healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
