Brushing your teeth seems simple, but are you doing it right? According to Dr. Prafull Sabadra, founder of Dr. Sabadra's Advanced Dentistry Centre, using too much toothpaste can be risky. Adults should use only a pea-sized amount, while children under 3 should stick to a grain-of-rice-sized smear. Using more than recommended may lead to fluoride overexposure, enamel wear, or dental fluorosis in kids.

Soft-bristled brushes and gentle technique are crucial to avoid damaging enamel and gums. Dr. Sabadra also warns against rinsing after brushing — instead, spit but don’t rinse to let fluoride stay on teeth longer for maximum benefit.

Supervision is key for children until around age 6, when they can safely spit and rinse. Overbrushing, especially with hard brushes, can harm oral health rather than help it. For best results, brush twice daily, use fluoride toothpaste, and see your dentist regularly for check-ups.