It’s common knowledge that teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, along with regular flossing and trips to the dentist. Most people brush their teeth in the morning and at night, but there are rules to be followed about when you should brush your teeth, and when you shouldn’t.
Are you aware of when it’s good to brush your teeth and when it’s not? Many people aren’t, so this post will help you determine if you’re helping by brushing your teeth right after a meal, or simply doing more damage.
Do I Brush My Teeth Before Or After Breakfast?
There’s no overwhelming consensus when it comes to brushing before or after breakfast, but brushing beforehand can help to eliminate any damage from brushing too soon after you eat the most important meal of the day.
If you happened to consumer any acidic foods or juices during your breakfast, it is not a good idea to rush to brush immediately after eating. The acid in orange juice and other foods and beverages negatively reacts to the enamel on your teeth, and brushing too soon can do damage to that enamel. And once it’s gone, it doesn’t come back. You’re better off waiting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour before brushing your teeth after eating breakfast to reduce damage to your teeth.
Should I Brush My Teeth After Every Meal?
If you know that you might be eating anything acidic (think tomato products, red wine and certain fruits), then it’s better to brush before your eat your meal rather than after. Just like when eating breakfast, brushing too soon after eating acidic foods can wreak havoc on your enamel.
It is also recommended that you drink a glass of water after eating acidic food to wash away the acids. Colgate suggests eating foods low in carbohydrates and sugar after eating acidic foods, as they reduce harmful acids.
The Final Word
Any time is an okay time to floss, but you need to be careful with when you choose to apply the bristles to your teeth. Before meals is the best option, as it will help avoid further damage from eating acidic foods. If you have any questions about your own brushing habits, talk with your dentist to determine what is best for your teeth.
