Don’t brush teeth immediately after eating.

flickr.com /photos /28408249@N07/ 3000025970

Am I serious?  Don’t brush after eating?  Yes, recent research shows that brushing too soon after meals (especially after eating acidic foods and drinks) can be harmful to the teeth.  Brushing after an acid reflux episode can also damage the teeth.

Acid attacks your teeth; it erodes enamel and the dentin.  Brushing can accelerate the process of erosion because brushing can push the acid deeper into the enamel and dentin layer.

What about diet soda?  An increase in dentin loss was noted by researchers when brushing took place within 20 minutes after drinking diet soda.  But there was less tooth wear when brushing took place 30-60 minutes later.

The conclusion is that to protect the dentin, people should wait at least 30 minutes to brush their teeth after drinking or eating acid.  To remove acid, it is better to rinse out the mouth with water or an acid-neutralizing mixture: one part baking soda to eight parts water.

Hope this helps.

About drlesliegreenberg

I have been practicing as a family physician for over 20 years--as both an educator of physicians and clinician. From infancy to the elderly, I perform obstetrics and general medicine. I love my career and am passionate about my field of knowledge and my patients. Follow me on Facebook at Leslie Md Greenberg Medical Disclaimer The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.
This entry was posted in General Medicine- Adults, oral health, Pediatrics, Uncategorized and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.