A dentist has warned not to copy what you see in TV adverts when you’re brushing your teeth. Dr Shaadi Manouchehri, a cosmetic dentist and facial aesthetic practitioner, issued the advice on her TikTok account (@Drshaadimanouchehri).
The expert explained: “I don’t know who needs to hear this but you’re probably using way too much toothpaste. All the adverts and TV shows/movies are lying to you! You literally just need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush.”
Dr Manouchehri added: “Make sure to spit and not rinse out to get the maximum protection from fluoride toothpaste.” In a follow-up video, the expert shared a demonstrative video for her followers.
“This is your daily reminder that you only need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush your teeth every day, twice a day. The toothpaste needs to have fluoride in it to protect your teeth and make them physically stronger,” she said.
“You don’t need any more than this. This is literally how much you need. If you’re using any more than this, if you’re doing one of those swirls on your normal manual toothbrush, it is too much, and you’re just going to waste it.”
Dr Manouchehri also responded to commenters who had concerns about their brushing technique. One said: “I understand what you’re saying, but it doesn’t look enough to cover your teeth. So I put a little extra just in case, but am I doing wrong?”
She replied: “Trust me a pea-sized amount is enough! Will be difficult at first if you’re not used to it.” Another wrote: “I feel like a pea-sized amount isn’t enough for all my teeth.” Offering reassurance, Dr Manouchehri replied: “It will be! Make sure to spit not rinse.”
Maintaining good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. In addition to brushing, it’s recommended to floss or use an interdental brush every day, reports Surrey Live. Flossing is important to remove food and plaque lodged between your teeth.
When brushing, use circular motions and remember to clean up to the gum line. It’s helpful to use a timer to ensure you are brushing for the full two minutes. If you opt for an electric toothbrush, you might find one with an oscillating or rotating head works better than a manual toothbrush.
However, the NHS says electric or manual toothbrushes are equally good, provided you clean all the surfaces of your teeth. As highlighted by Dr Manouchehri, you shouldn’t rinse straight away after you brush your teeth.
Doing so dilutes the concentrated fluoride in the remaining toothpaste, the NHS explains, meaning you could miss out on its preventative effects. If you have any concerns, speak to your dentist.