Javier Jiménez
Senior WriterHead of science, health, and environment at Xataka. Methodologist turned communicator, I write about science, ideas and social change.
In 2012, a group of researchers at the University of Gothenburg concluded that almost all Swedes brush their teeth. However, the team discovered that only one in 10 does it well. While these results were specific to Sweden, they likely hold true in the Western world, where people often invest a disproportionate amount of time and resources into ineffective tooth brushing.
People are not to blame. According to the BBC, studies have identified at least 66 different types of expert advice, often contradictory. This raises the question: What does the scientific evidence actually say about brushing your teeth?
How should you brush your teeth? The most effective method is one that understands the purpose behind brushing. Many people believe they brush primarily to remove food particles from their mouths. However, there’s more to it. Teeth develop a dense biofilm called dental plaque, which rinsing alone can’t easily eliminate.
Brushing your teeth is essential for removing the sticky film from the surfaces of your teeth and gums.
While several effective brushing techniques are available, the best method is to move the toothbrush from the gums toward the tip of the tooth rather than using a horizontal motion. According to dentists, it’s crucial to thoroughly brush each tooth one by one, applying gentle pressure and taking your time.
How often should you brush your teeth? Experts recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day: once before bedtime and once after waking up. This may seem unusual, but there’s a good reason for it. Saliva plays a crucial role in inhibiting bacterial plaque. However, our bodies produce less saliva while we sleep.
As a result, our mouths become more conducive to bacterial growth during the night. Rinsing before brushing in the morning helps remove food particles that bacteria can use to thrive and weaken enamel. As such, the primary purpose of brushing your teeth after waking up is to refresh the bacterial environment in the mouth. This allows saliva to perform its protective function effectively.
Don’t you have to brush your teeth after meals? You can brush your teeth as often as you want as long as you use a medium toothbrush. It’s generally a good idea to do it after eating because it helps remove food debris that bacteria can feed on.
However, there are exceptions. If you’ve eaten sweets or drunk a large amount of acidic drinks (such as soda, coffee, and alcohol), or if you’ve just vomited, brushing immediately may not be advisable. According to experts, when the pH level in the mouth is acidic, the enamel becomes weakened. As such, brushing at that moment can cause damage, even if it’s not immediately noticeable. It’s better to wait, allowing saliva to neutralize the acids or sugars before brushing.
Image | Lute
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