Wednesday, 1 October 2025
That's Food and Drink: Carrots are the tops – 7 top facts and recipes for...
That's Food and Drink: Carrots are the tops – 7 top facts and recipes for...: Last year That's Food and Drink was pleased to support the inaugural National Carrot Day. And we are equally pleased to support this yea...
The Potential Dangers of Parrot Poop: What Every Owner Should Know
But like any pet, they come with responsibilities—and that includes cleaning up after them.
While most parrot owners accept cage cleaning as part of the daily routine, not everyone realises that parrot droppings can pose risks if not handled properly.
Here’s what every parrot owner should know about the potential dangers of parrot poop, and how to keep both you and your bird safe.
What’s in Parrot Droppings?
Unlike mammals, birds don’t separate solid and liquid waste. Instead, their droppings contain:
Faeces – the solid, often green or brown portion.
Urates – a white, chalky substance (this is bird “urine”).
Water – healthy droppings should be slightly moist, not too watery.
A quick look at your parrot’s droppings each day is actually an important part of monitoring their health. Sudden changes in colour, consistency, or frequency can signal illness. But beyond what droppings tell you about your bird, they can also affect your health.
Potential Risks for Owners
This is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. Parrots can carry it without showing signs, and humans may get infected by inhaling dried droppings or dust.
Symptoms feel like the flu—fever, chills, cough—and in serious cases, pneumonia. It’s rare, but important to be aware of.
2. Fungal Build-up
If droppings are left sitting in the cage, they can encourage fungi such as Aspergillus. Inhaling spores can irritate your lungs, especially if you already have asthma or allergies.
3. Salmonella
Parrots can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can be spread via droppings. If it gets onto your hands, food prep areas, or surfaces, you might end up with a nasty bout of food poisoning.
4. Dust & Allergies
Even if no infection is present, dried droppings turn into dust. This can irritate your airways and, with long-term exposure, lead to allergic reactions or conditions like bird fancier’s lung.
Who Should Be Extra Careful?
Children – little ones may touch droppings or cage bars, then put their hands in their mouths.
Older relatives – weaker immune systems mean more risk.
Anyone with asthma or a weakened immune system – bird dust and germs can hit harder.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Bird
Disinfect Weekly – Use a bird-safe disinfectant for deeper cage cleans.
Wear Gloves (and sometimes a mask) – Especially when scraping up dried droppings.
Wash Hands Thoroughly – Always after handling your parrot or cleaning their cage.
Good Ventilation – Keep fresh air flowing in the bird’s room to reduce dust build-up.
Vet Check-ups – Regular visits help detect hidden infections before they become problems.
The Bottom Line for Parrot Owners
Parrot poop is part of life with a feathered friend, but it doesn’t have to be a health hazard. With good hygiene and regular cleaning, the risks are very low.
Think of it as a way to keep both you and your parrot healthy—while enjoying many more years of noisy, colourful companionship.
The Most Painful Health Conditions: From Excruciating to Manageable
Pain is one of the most universal human experiences, but not all pain is equal. Some health conditions cause extreme, almost unbearable suffering, while others are uncomfortable but manageable.
Understanding which conditions are typically the most painful can help you recognise symptoms early, empathise with sufferers, and seek proper care.
Extremely Severe Pain
1. Cluster Headaches
Known as “suicide headaches,” cluster headaches are sudden, excruciating attacks around one eye, often waking sufferers from sleep. They are considered one of the most intense pains known to humans.
2. Trigeminal Neuralgia
This nerve condition produces electric-shock-like facial pain, usually on one side of the face. Episodes can last seconds but are often repeated multiple times a day.
3. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones cause sharp, cramping pain as they move through the urinary tract, radiating from the back or flank to the groin. Passing a stone is often described as agonising.
4. Childbirth Complications
While childbirth is a natural process, complications such as obstructed labour without pain relief can result in extreme, prolonged pain.
5. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS is chronic and usually develops after an injury or surgery, causing burning, stabbing pain and heightened sensitivity in the affected limb.
Severe but Intermittent or Localised Pain
6. Gallstones (Biliary Colic)
Gallstones can trigger sudden, sharp upper abdominal pain, often after fatty meals.
7. Migraines with Aura
Migraines are more than headaches—they bring severe throbbing pain, nausea, and visual disturbances.
8. Acute Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas leads to intense upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
9. Severe Burns (2nd and 3rd Degree)
Pain from burns is severe during injury and throughout the healing process, especially during dressing changes.
10. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Shingles produce a painful, blistering rash, sometimes leading to postherpetic neuralgia—long-lasting nerve pain.
🟡 Moderate but Persistent Pain
11. Tooth Abscess
Dental abscesses can cause throbbing, intense pain, often disrupting sleep and daily activities.
12. Appendicitis
Sharp abdominal pain from appendicitis requires urgent medical attention. Pain often worsens quickly if untreated.
13. Endometriosis
This condition causes chronic pelvic pain in those affected, sometimes severely impacting daily life.
14. Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to touch.
15. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Arthritis causes joint pain ranging from mild stiffness to severe discomfort limiting movement.
🟢 Less Severe but Distressing Pain
16. Severe Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
Sinus infections cause facial and forehead pressure, headaches, and overall discomfort.
17. Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
Throbbing ear pain is common, especially in children, and can be intense during infection.
18. Tension Headaches
Tension headaches produce dull, persistent pain, often affecting productivity but usually manageable.
19. Muscle Strain or Back Spasms
Strains can cause sharp or throbbing pain, usually improving with rest, physiotherapy, or medication.
20. Sprains (e.g., Ankle Sprain)
Sprains are painful but typically heal well with proper care and rehabilitation.
Final Painful Thoughts
Pain is highly subjective. Even the same condition can feel different for each person. Understanding the most painful health conditions helps us empathise, identify warning signs early, and seek timely treatment.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know experiences severe or sudden pain, always consult a medical professional promptly—especially for conditions like kidney stones, appendicitis, or unexplained severe headaches.
Surrounded by Idiots? Maybe You’re the Problem?
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The colleague who emails “per my last email” as if that’s a personality trait.
The colleague who thinks reheating fish in the office microwave is acceptable. Idiots, the lot of them.
But here’s the uncomfortable truth: if everyone around you is an idiot, chances are… it’s not them. It’s you.
The Idiot Magnet Theory
Think about it. If you’re forever muttering “I can’t believe how thick people are,” yet these so-called idiots somehow manage to hold jobs, run households, raise kids, and even pay taxes, then maybe they’re not quite as clueless as you think. Maybe you’re just the common denominator. Congratulations: you’re the idiot magnet?
Ego in Action
Maybe you’re not surrounded by fools at all — maybe you’re just a bit of a know-it-all. If your internal motto is “my way or the highway,” then every other way will look like idiocy. Spoiler: it’s not. Sometimes, people simply think differently, and that doesn’t make them wrong. It just makes you… difficult.
Communication, or Lack of It
Another possibility: you’re rubbish at explaining things. If everyone “doesn’t get it,” perhaps the problem isn’t their brains, but your mouth.
Or your PowerPoint. Or that passive-aggressive WhatsApp message you thought was “crystal clear.” If you speak Martian and expect people to reply in fluent English, don’t be shocked when you get blank stares.
The Dangers of the Idiot Label
Here’s the kicker: once you decide everyone else is an idiot, you stop listening. And when you stop listening, you miss out. You miss the colleague who had the better idea. You miss the friend who spotted the flaw in your plan. You miss the chance to not look like a prat.
Quick Self-Test
Ask yourself:
Is everyone else wrong, or am I just impatient?
Do I explain things properly, or do I just bark instructions and hope for the best?
Do I secretly think the world would run smoother if everyone just did what I said?
If you’re nodding along, I’ve got bad news: you might just be the problem.
Final Thought
Yes, there are genuine idiots in the world no denying that. But if you’re convinced you’re drowning in them daily, it’s time for some self-reflection. Either you’ve got the unluckiest life imaginable, or maybe, just maybe, the idiot in the room isn’t them.
Tuesday, 30 September 2025
That's Food and Drink: Firebrand Brewing Co. Collaborates With Blue Balls...
That's Food and Drink: Firebrand Brewing Co. Collaborates With Blue Balls...: Launceston's Firebrand Brewing Co. is delighted to unveil Blue Balls, their new non-alcoholic hazy IPA created in collaboration with Blu...
What to Look for in a Good Toothpaste or Mouthwash
Fluoride content – fluoride helps with preventing cavities and strengthening enamel. Most UK toothpastes for adults have about 1,350–1,500 ppm fluoride.
Sensitivity relief – ingredients like potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, arginine etc., help reduce sensitivity.
Enamel protection / remineralisation – important if you drink acidic drinks, have worn enamel, or are prone to erosion.
Natural / Herbal / Ayurvedic content – neem, triphala, miswak, clove, herbal extracts. These may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties. Sometimes people prefer these to reduce chemicals / artificial additives.
Free from certain ingredients – e.g. alcohol-free mouthwash, SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate), artificial flavours or colours, etc., especially if you are sensitive.
Mouthwash specific things: alcohol vs alcohol-free, what active antimicrobial agent (chlorhexidine, CPC, essential oils, herbal etc.), whether it helps with breath, gum health, sensitivity.
Best Toothpastes (UK & Broad Availability)
Here are some of the top picks, grouped by needs:
General protection & all-round oral health Oral-B Pro-Expert Professional Protection Uses stannous fluoride complex; protects against cavities, plaque, gum problems, sensitivity, enamel erosion.
Sensitivity + enamel care Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Good for people who suffer with sensitive teeth and want gentle whitening. Helps protect from acids.
Zendium Sensitive Uses natural enzymes & proteins, gentler on the mouth; helps sensitivity + strengthens enamel.
Natural / Fluoride‐free / SLS‐free AloeDent Sensitive Aloe Vera Toothpaste Fluoride-free; soothing herbal ingredients. Good if you avoid SLS or want a gentler feel.
Brands like Georganics Natural mineral toothpastes, often with sustainable / eco packaging.
High fluoride / heavy duty enamel repair Regenerate Enamel Science Advanced Targets early enamel erosion, remineralisation. Useful for higher risk of enamel wear.
Indian / Neem / Ayurvedic Toothpastes & Mouthwashes If you’re interested in more traditional / herbal / Ayurvedic oral care, these are some good options, plus what the evidence suggests about neem etc.
Why Neem & Herbs?
Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been used for centuries in Indian medicine (Ayurveda) due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties. When included in toothpastes or mouthwashes, neem can help reduce bacterial load, soothe gums, help with plaque, reduce bad breath.
Along with neem, Ayurvedic blends often include herbs like clove, triphala (a mix of three fruits: amla, haritaki, bibhitaki), miswak, licorice, etc. These can complement, though not always fully replace, conventional oral care (especially where fluoride is needed).
Examples of Ayurvedic / Neem Products
Auromere Ayurvedic Mouthwash 23 botanical extracts + 9 essential oils; includes neem, licorice, herbal extracts. Alcohol-free, etc.
Himalaya HiOra Mouthwash Herbal/Ayurvedic ingredients (miswak, betel leaf, bibhitaki etc.), gentle, herbal-fresh breath. Regular & sensitive formulas.
Dr Deepa’s Ayurvedic Mouthwash with Triphala & Neem A powder format that you mix with water; uses triphala + neem for antimicrobial, gum health, oral detox.
Dabur Ayurvedic Oil Mouth Wash Uses clove, ginger, black pepper etc.; more of a traditional oil mouthwash. Good for breath, gums.
Sagar Ayurveda BeFresh Mouthwash Neem + clove + peppermint + camphor; refreshing, more “everyday” herbal-mouthwash feel.
Indian Neem Toothpastes
Colgate Vedshakti Toothpaste – includes neem, clove, amla, tulsi, honey. Offers antibacterial properties etc.
Pil Neem Plus Herbal Dental Gel – neem, babool, meswak, clove oil etc. Good for plaque, breath.
Herbal toothpastes with neem + other Ayurveda herbs are often fluoride-free, or lower fluoride; check label. Some might not have fluoride, which changes what they can do re: cavity prevention.
Strengths & Weaknesses: Ayurvedic / Herbal vs Conventional
Advantages:
Gentler, more “natural” feeling; often fewer harsh chemicals, more herbal/plant-based.
Can have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits via neem, clove, etc.
May be more acceptable to people avoiding alcohol, synthetic additives or animal by-products.
Limitations / Things to Watch Out For:
If the herbal product lacks sufficient fluoride, it may not protect as well against cavities. For many people, both are needed: a good herbal product plus fluoride-rich toothpaste (or choose a herbal toothpaste with good fluoride content).
Overreliance on “natural” = not always better: some herbal extracts can still irritate, especially if you have allergies or sensitive mucosa.
Mouthwash with alcohol or strong essential oils can cause burning / dryness.
Whitening effects from herbal abrasives (clay, charcoal, etc.) may be mild / slower and could be abrasive if overused.
How to Combine
Here are suggested routines depending on your priorities:
If your priority is cavity prevention + sensitivity: Use a fluoride toothpaste (choose one with sensitivity support like Sensodyne Pronamel, or ones with stannous fluoride). Maybe use a herbal/Neem toothpaste every other brushing, or occasionally for herbal benefits / flavour / breath.
If your want more natural / herbal first: Ensure you pick herbal/Ayurvedic options that include fluoride or at least use them as adjuncts (mouthwash, oil pulling). For mouthwash, pick alcohol-free and gentle herbal ones.
If you have very sensitive teeth or enamel erosion: go for high fluoride / enamel-repair pastes; avoid overly abrasive ingredients; use gentle mouthwashes; perhaps consult your dentist.
Examples of Routines
Morning: Use a standard fluoride toothpaste that protects enamel (e.g. Pronamel or Oral-B ProExpert). Rinse with an alcohol-free herbal mouthwash (e.g. Auromere or HiOra) after brushing for freshness.
Evening: Maybe switch to a more herbal/Ayurvedic toothpaste (if safe) with neem/clove; or use oil pulling / herbal powder mouthwash; finish off with usual fluoride toothpaste, depending on your needs.
Indian / Neem / Ayurvedic Toothpastes & Mouthwashes
If you’re interested in more traditional / herbal / Ayurvedic oral care, these are some good options, plus what the evidence suggests about neem etc.
Why Neem & Herbs?
Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been used for centuries in Indian medicine (Ayurveda) due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties. When included in toothpastes or mouthwashes, neem can help reduce bacterial load, soothe gums, help with plaque, reduce bad breath. Along with neem, Ayurvedic blends often include herbs like clove, triphala (a mix of three fruits: amla, haritaki, bibhitaki), miswak, licorice, etc. These can complement, though not always fully replace, conventional oral care (especially where fluoride is needed).
Examples of Ayurvedic / Neem Products
Product What it includes / What it's good for
Auromere Ayurvedic Mouthwash 23 botanical extracts + 9 essential oils; includes neem, licorice, herbal extracts. Alcohol-free, etc.
Himalaya HiOra Mouthwash Herbal/Ayurvedic ingredients (miswak, betel leaf, bibhitaki etc.), gentle, herbal-fresh breath. Regular & sensitive formulas.
Dr Deepa’s Ayurvedic Mouthwash with Triphala & Neem A powder format that you mix with water; uses triphala + neem for antimicrobial, gum health, oral detox.
Dabur Ayurvedic Oil Mouth Wash Uses clove, ginger, black pepper etc.; more of a traditional oil mouthwash. Good for breath, gums.
Sagar Ayurveda BeFresh Mouthwash Neem + clove + peppermint + camphor; refreshing, more “everyday” herbal-mouthwash feel.
Indian Neem Toothpastes
Colgate Vedshakti Toothpaste – includes neem, clove, amla, tulsi, honey. Offers antibacterial properties etc.
Pil Neem Plus Herbal Dental Gel – neem, babool, meswak, clove oil etc. Good for plaque, breath.
Herbal toothpastes with neem + other Ayurveda herbs are often fluoride-free, or lower fluoride; check label. Some might not have fluoride, which changes what they can do re: cavity prevention.
Strengths & Weaknesses: Ayurvedic / Herbal vs Conventional
Advantages:
Gentler, more “natural” feeling; often fewer harsh chemicals, more herbal/plant-based.
Can have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits via neem, clove, etc.
May be more acceptable to people avoiding alcohol, synthetic additives or animal by-products.
Limitations / Things to Watch Out For:
If the herbal product lacks sufficient fluoride, it may not protect as well against cavities. For many people, both are needed: a good herbal product plus fluoride-rich toothpaste (or choose a herbal toothpaste with good fluoride content).
Overreliance on “natural” = not always better: some herbal extracts can still irritate, especially if you have allergies or sensitive mucosa.
Mouthwash with alcohol or strong essential oils can cause burning / dryness.
Whitening effects from herbal abrasives (clay, charcoal, etc.) may be mild / slower and could be abrasive if overused.
How to Combine
Here are suggested routines depending on your priorities:
If your priority is cavity prevention + sensitivity: Use a fluoride toothpaste (choose one with sensitivity support like Sensodyne Pronamel, or ones with stannous fluoride). Maybe use a herbal/Neem toothpaste every other brushing, or occasionally for herbal benefits / flavour / breath.
If your want more natural / herbal first: Ensure you pick herbal/Ayurvedic options that include fluoride or at least use them as adjuncts (mouthwash, oil pulling). For mouthwash, pick alcohol-free and gentle herbal ones.
If you have very sensitive teeth or enamel erosion: go for high fluoride / enamel-repair pastes; avoid overly abrasive ingredients; use gentle mouthwashes; perhaps consult your dentist.
Examples of Routines
Morning: Use a standard fluoride toothpaste that protects enamel (e.g. Pronamel or Oral-B ProExpert). Rinse with an alcohol-free herbal mouthwash (e.g. Auromere or HiOra) after brushing for freshness.
Evening: Maybe switch to a more herbal/Ayurvedic toothpaste (if safe) with neem/clove; or use oil pulling / herbal powder mouthwash; finish off with usual fluoride toothpaste, depending on your needs.
Here’s a curated list of Ayurvedic / Neem toothpaste & mouthwash picks under about £10 in the UK, plus a few slightly above that. I’ve included product info + pros/cons to help you pick what suits you.
Ayurvedic / Neem Toothpastes & Mouthwashes Under ~£10 (UK / with UK-shipping)
These are more affordable options (≈£0-£10 or a little above):
Himalaya Ayurvedic Dental Cream Toothpaste – Neem & Pomegranate (100g, ~£3.49)
This is a herbal fluoride toothpaste (contains natural fluoride) with Neem + Pomegranate. Helps fight germs, strengthens enamel and prevents gum bleeding.
Himalaya Wellness (UK)
Himalaya Ayurvedic Dental Cream Toothpaste – Clove (100g, ~£2.99)
Fluoride-free. Uses clove oil (Eugenia caryophyllus) as its main herb for antibacterial effects and fresh breath. Good option if you prefer fewer synthetic ingredients.
Himalaya Wellness (UK)
Sudanta Non-Fluoride Toothpaste (100g, ~£7.99)
An Ayurvedic blend with herbs/spices like clove, cinnamon, black pepper, Bakul and Mayaphal. Completely free from fluoride. Good if you want strong herbal content.
Amrita Ayurvedic Herbal Toothpaste (neem, mango leaves, lemon, herbs + charcoal, ~£5.50)
Free from fluoride, titanium dioxide, microplastics. Includes neem for gum health; lemon & mango leaves; charcoal for mild whitening.
Maharishi Ayurveda Ayurdent Toothpaste, Mild (75 ml, ~£5.90)
Contains 17 Ayurvedic herbs including neem, clove oil, ginger, pepper, peppermint oil. Fluoride-free. Gentle, with a classic herbal flavour.
Dabur Red Ayurvedic Toothpaste (100g, ~£4.69)
Blend of 13 active Ayurvedic ingredients (e.g. clove, pudina, ginger) — a “red paste” style Ayurvedic product, somewhat strong/herby flavour.
Vasu Dentup Neem Herbal Mouthwash (250ml, ~£3.99)
Alcohol-free neem mouthwash. Supports fresh breath and helps maintain oral hygiene via neem’s antiseptic/antibacterial nature. Good for daily use.
Dentup Herbal Mouthwash – Neem (250ml, ~£1.99)
Very affordable. Botanical extracts + essential oils. Claims to remove bacteria, help with plaque, cavities, halitosis.
House of Mistry Natural Neem Mouthwash (~£4.99)
Simple formula: potenzied neem oil, free of artificial perfumes/colours. Vegan. Good mild option for regular rinsing.
Organix South TheraNeem Neem Mouthwash – Mint (480ml, ~£9.83 on sale)
Large bottle. Alcohol-free, with neem leaf/herb extract. Great value per ml, if you use mouthwash regularly.
Extra Picks (Slightly Above £10 / Specialty / Natural)
In case you want something fancier or in a larger bottle:
Auromere Mouthwash with Neem & Peelu: Ayurvedic mouthwash; more premium / larger size, so price is higher.
Desert Essence Natural Neem Mouthwash – Cinnamint (480ml): Natural flavour, large size, more expensive but good if you want more natural ingredients and a pleasant taste.
Here are 8 good products (some under, some slightly above £10) that you might like. Links/prices approximate/no guarantee—check the sellers.
Dabur Herbal Toothpaste 100ml
£3.99
Kugans.com + others
House of Mistry Natural Neem Mouthwash 310 g
£4.99
Kingfisher Fluoride‑Free Fennel Toothpaste 100 ml
£3.69
Eco Natural Products + others
Dabur Antibacterial Organic Neem Toothpaste 100 ml
£4.49
Vatika Naturals + others
Auromere Mouthwash with Neem & Peelu
£14.88
Kingfisher Aloe Vera Tea‑Tree‑Fennel Toothpaste
£2.79
WellEasy + others
Kingfisher Aloe Vera Tea‑Tree Mint Toothpaste
£3.69
bodykind + others
Desert Essence Neem Cinnamint Mouthwash
£7.06
Nutriessential.com + others
Here are some highlights:
Dabur Herbal Toothpaste 100ml: Strong herbal flavour; multiple Ayurvedic herbs; budget-friendly.
House of Mistry Natural Neem Mouthwash 310 g: Natural, mild mouthwash; good option for daily use.
Kingfisher Fluoride‑Free Fennel Toothpaste 100 ml: A different herbal flavour – fennel; fluoride-free; gentler if you dislike mint or strong herbal taste.
Dabur Antibacterial Organic Neem Toothpaste 100 ml: Neem-centric; organic; good option for antibacterial effect.
Auromere Mouthwash with Neem & Peelu: Larger, more premium mouthwash; herbal profile, more noticeable aroma/flavour.
Kingfisher Aloe Vera Tea‑Tree‑Fennel Toothpaste: Aloe + tea-tree + fennel combo; gentler; soothing.
Kingfisher Aloe Vera Tea‑Tree Mint Toothpaste: As above, but mintier flavour.
Desert Essence Neem Cinnamint Mouthwash: Larger volume; strong flavour; more expensive but nice for occasional luxury or “treat” mouthwash.
What To Consider When Choosing
If a toothpaste is fluoride-free, then it's good for herbal / natural preference, but you’ll want to ensure you get cavity protection from elsewhere (or alternate with a fluoride one).
Check the amount of neem or herbal extract vs filler. Sometimes a product lists many herbs, but in tiny amounts.
Watch for alcohol in mouthwashes — herbal but alcoholic mouthwashes can be harsher for sensitive gums.
Taste/flavour matters: herbal pastes/mouthwashes can taste strong. If you’re not used to clove, neem, etc., maybe start with mild herbal flavour.
Packaging size vs price: larger bottles may cost more up front but be cheaper per ml.
Incidentally if you have an Indian-owned grocery shop in your area not only will you find fantastic herbs, spices, etc (that's where my wife buys her supplies from) you will also usually find a good range of Ayurvedic toothpastes and mouthwashes, too.
Toothbrush Design: Why Aren’t the Bristles Set at 45 Degrees?
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This angle isn’t an arbitrary number—it allows the bristles to gently sweep plaque and debris from both the tooth surface and the gumline, where many dental problems begin.
But as I walked home, a thought struck me: if dentists and hygienists always recommend brushing at a 45-degree angle, why don’t manufacturers design toothbrushes so that the bristles are already mounted that way?
The Importance of the 45-Degree Angle
Brushing straight across your teeth can clean surfaces reasonably well, but it often misses the crucial area just under the gumline where bacteria gather. When held at 45 degrees, bristles reach slightly beneath the gum edge, helping to prevent gingivitis and gum disease.
It’s such a simple piece of advice, and yet it requires conscious effort every time we brush.
How Toothbrushes Are Designed Now
Most manual toothbrushes have flat, straight handles and either flat-cut or gently contoured bristles. Some premium designs use angled necks or criss-cross bristle patterns, but they still rely on the user to position the brush correctly.
Electric brushes, with their oscillating or sonic action, make the job easier but still don’t guarantee that perfect 45-degree positioning.
In short, toothbrushes are designed to accommodate the 45-degree technique, but not to enforce it.
Why Don’t Manufacturers Mount Bristles at 45 Degrees?
There are a few likely reasons:
Flexibility of use – Not everyone’s teeth, gums, or brushing styles are the same. A permanently angled bristle head might help some users but feel awkward or ineffective for others.
Manufacturing and cost – Flat designs are cheaper and simpler to produce. Adding angled bristle mounts or complex shapes increases costs.
User control – Dental professionals prefer people to learn how to brush properly, rather than rely on a fixed design. After all, you need to be able to adjust your angle depending on whether you’re brushing front teeth, molars, or along the gumline.
Innovation already exists—but quietly – Some toothbrushes, particularly in specialist dental ranges, do feature angled heads or V-shaped bristle cuts. They’re not mainstream products, though, and often come at a higher price and limited availability.
Could Toothbrush Design Evolve?
It’s a fair question: if the 45-degree angle is the gold standard, surely it’s only a matter of time before manufacturers take it more seriously. A toothbrush with a subtly tilted bristle head, combined with ergonomic handle design, might help everyday users achieve better results without having to think about their wrist angle.
We’ve already seen the market embrace bamboo handles, smart toothbrushes with pressure sensors, and bristles made from recycled materials. Perhaps the next big innovation will be toothbrushes that build the dentist’s advice into the very design.
Until then, the responsibility rests with us: keep your brush angled, be gentle at the gumline, and remember that the simplest habits can make the biggest difference to oral health.
Later on we'll talk about toothpastes and mouthwashes.
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