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It’s common to brush your teeth after eating or feeling like you’ve got crumbs stuck in your mouth, but one dentist is advising against brushing at certain times to protect your teeth. Dr. Shaadi Manouchehri, a popular London-based dentist with over 100,000 followers on Instagram, recently shared in a video the three key moments when you should avoid brushing your teeth.
Avoid Brushing After Vomiting
Dr. Manouchehri stresses the importance of not brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting. The contents of the stomach are highly acidic, which leaves your mouth in an acidic state. Brushing at this moment can damage the enamel on your teeth by rubbing this acid into them, contributing to enamel erosion over time.
Don’t Brush Right After Breakfast
Another critical moment to avoid brushing is straight after breakfast. When you eat, your mouth becomes acidic, and brushing immediately afterward can rub the acid onto your teeth. This action can also wear down the minerals in your tooth enamel. It’s better to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth to allow the pH levels in your mouth to stabilize.
Wait After Sweets Before Brushing
If you’ve just had a sugary treat, Dr. Manouchehri advises waiting at least an hour before brushing your teeth. Sweets turn into acid when digested in the mouth, and brushing immediately afterward can cause enamel damage, as the acid will be rubbed into your teeth.
Best Time to Brush: First Thing in the Morning
In a separate video, Dr. Manouchehri also recommends brushing your teeth first thing in the morning, before eating anything, as this removes bacteria that may have built up overnight. Another important tip she shares is not using mouthwash immediately after brushing, as it can wash away the fluoride layer, which protects and strengthens teeth throughout the day.
Signs You Might Be Eating Too Much Sugar
While enjoying sweets occasionally is fine, Dr. Nyree Whitley, another dentist at mydentist, points out that frequent sugar consumption can lead to tooth sensitivity, spots, and toothaches. These signs could indicate that you’re consuming too much sugar, which can have a detrimental effect on your dental health.
Dr. Manouchehri’s tips serve as a reminder of the importance of proper dental hygiene and when to avoid brushing to protect your enamel and overall oral health.
