Archive · 4 Nov 2025
Brushing Teeth Twice a Day May Harm More Than Once: Expert
Everyone thinks brushing their teeth two times a day is the best way to keep them healthy.
But a dentist says that if you don't brush very well, doing it too much can actually hurt your gums.
It's better to brush your teeth really well just one time each day, especially at night.
If you brush too often or too hard, your gums might get sore.
The dentist also says it's good to brush before you eat breakfast because food can make your teeth soft.
After brushing, don't wash your mouth with water because it washes away good stuff from the toothpaste called fluoride that helps your teeth.
Just spit out extra toothpaste and let the fluoride stay on.
It doesn't matter if you buy fancy toothpaste; as long as it has fluoride, it works fine.
Brushing teeth twice daily may cause harm if not done with proper technique.
Experts suggest that brushing once a day well is more beneficial than brushing twice poorly.
Evening brushing is recommended for single-brushing sessions.
Avoid rinsing with water after brushing to maximize fluoride benefits.
The effectiveness of toothpaste depends on fluoride content, not price or specialty features.
- Who
- Dr. Praveen Sharma, from the School of Dentistry at the University of Birmingham
- What
- Brushing teeth twice a day might be harmful if done improperly; proper technique and timing are crucial for oral health.
- When
- Evening brushing is recommended if done only once a day. Brushing before breakfast is advised.
- Where
- School of Dentistry at the University of Birmingham (implied context for expert's affiliation)
- Why
- Over-brushing or incorrect technique can damage gums. Acids from food can soften enamel, making teeth vulnerable if brushed immediately after consumption. Rinsing with water after brushing washes away beneficial fluoride.
- Brushing Frequency
- Twice a day is common advice, but once well is better than twice poorly.
- Recommended Brushing Time
- Evening brushing is recommended if only brushing once.
- Brushing Technique
- Small circular motions, gentle pressure, focus on gum-tooth junction.
- Brushing Before Meals
- Ideal to brush before breakfast due to acidic foods softening enamel.
- Rinsing After Brushing
- Avoid rinsing with water to keep fluoride on teeth; spit excess toothpaste.
- Toothpaste Choice
- Fluoride content is key; expensive or specialty pastes offer no significant advantage.