Normally, do you wet your toothbrush first, then apply toothpaste and start brushing, or do you wet the toothbrush, apply toothpaste, and then start brushing?
Dr. Payal Bhalla, Clinical Director at Quest Dental (UK), advises against applying toothpaste to a dry toothbrush. It’s a small habit but can be harmful to the teeth and gums. According to Dr. Bhalla, you should wet the toothbrush before applying toothpaste. Dr. Bhalla explains, “Wetting the toothbrush first is necessary for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to evenly spread the toothpaste, ensuring better coverage on the tooth surfaces. This enhances the effectiveness of cleaning and removes plaque and food debris more effectively.”
This method also helps to gently care for the gums. When wet, the bristles of the toothbrush are softer, especially in Vietnam’s dry season when toothbrush bristles can become stiff. Wetting the toothbrush reduces gum irritation, and the softer bristles won’t harm the tooth enamel.
Additionally, wetting the toothbrush activates the toothpaste’s components, improving bacteria resistance and maintaining oral hygiene. By wetting the toothbrush, you can enhance the overall brushing experience and have better oral health. This is a simple step but holds value in daily oral care habits.
On the other hand, if you apply toothpaste to a wet toothbrush, it can potentially damage your mouth. Dry toothbrush bristles can wear down the tooth enamel, posing a risk of weakened, discolored, yellowed, or dull-looking teeth. Moreover, brushing your teeth this way can increase the risk of tooth sensitivity and tooth decay in the long run.
Brushing your teeth with a dry toothbrush also increases the risk of gum recession and is less effective in removing plaque build-up. Dr. Bhalla warns that improper brushing is a common cause of bad breath and can even lead to tooth discoloration. “Brushing your teeth like this can wear down the bristles more quickly, reducing their lifespan and effectiveness due to bacterial accumulation, causing bad breath. Brushing without foam makes it difficult to effectively remove dirt on the tooth surface, leading to tooth discoloration over time.”
Therefore, before brushing your teeth, you should wet the toothbrush. If you have time, you can soak the toothbrush in water for a few minutes, then apply toothpaste and start brushing.
Furthermore, you should also pay attention to replace your toothbrush if the bristles are stiff, and in general, you should replace your toothbrush every 3-6 months. The type of toothpaste you use should also be considered if they truly benefit your oral health.
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