Brushing your teeth after breakfast could destroy your enamel

In recent public health discussions, Dr Shaadi Manouchehri, a dentist based in Marylebone, London, has brought attention to common dental hygiene mistakes that could adversely affect tooth health. She highlights the detrimental effects of brushing teeth immediately after certain situations, such as vomiting, eating breakfast, or consuming sweets. This advice stems from the understanding that these activities leave the mouth in an acidic state, which can weaken tooth enamel when brushed promptly. As stomach contents are highly acidic, brushing teeth right after vomiting not only spreads this acidity but can lead to further enamel erosion. Similar concerns arise when brushing right after breakfast, as food acidity can also compromise enamel strength. Furthermore, the consumption of sweets leads to acid formation in the mouth, and brushing instantly after such treats can exacerbate tooth enamel deterioration. Dr Manouchehri advises waiting at least 60 minutes after consuming sweets before brushing, allowing saliva to neutralize the acid. During her discussions, she also emphasizes the importance of the timing of tooth brushing, recommending that people brush right after waking, without having eaten. She also discourages the practice of using mouthwash immediately after brushing, indicating that it washes away fluoride—an important element for tooth protection. These recommendations are not merely anecdotal but reflect a growing understanding among dental professionals regarding how food and digestive processes influence tooth health. Additional insights have been offered by Dr Nyree Whitley, who also provides tips on the signs of excessive sugar intake, which can manifest as increased tooth sensitivity and visible decay. With these insights, both dentists are encouraging the public to take conscious steps toward better dental hygiene, aiming to prevent long-term damage to teeth and gums.