Why you should wait 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth

Many people brush their teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening before going to bed.

But many VERIFY viewers, including Henry, want to know if you should wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating or drinking something acidic, such as tomatoes, orange juice, sports drinks, soda, wine or coffee.

“Do the acids in coffee and alcohol soften tooth enamel so brushing can cause weak spots?” asked a viewer.

Should you wait 30 minutes to brush your teeth after eating acidic foods or drinks?

Yes, you should wait about 30 minutes to brush your teeth after eating acidic foods or drinks.

Sign up for VERIFY Daily Newsletter!

Dentists at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Mayo Clinic says that people should wait about 30 minutes to brush their teeth after eating acidic food or drink. weak acid enamel — the outer protective layer of the teeth — and brushing too soon can remove this layer, which can increase the risk of tooth decay.

“Foods and drinks that are high in acid will wear away the enamel that protects your teeth,” reports According to the American Dental Association on its website. “This changes the appearance of your teeth and creates an opportunity for bacteria that can cause tooth decay or infection.”

North Boulder Dental Corporation explained that human teeth undergo two processes known as demineralization and remineralization every day. Demineralization occurs when bacteria from the foods and drinks we consume during the day produce acids that attack tooth enamel.

Meanwhile, tooth remineralization occurs when important minerals found in saliva, such as calcium and phosphate, bind with teeth to fill in areas of weak enamel that have been degraded by acids and plaque. by the time. Dentists say waiting about 30 minutes to brush your teeth after eating acidic foods or drinks helps enamel remineralize and rebuild itself.

Crocodile roll cakeassistant professor of dental medicine at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, recommends rinsing or drinking water instead of brushing your teeth right away because it “starts the process of remineralizing tooth enamel.” Dutch Keitha holistic dentist at Rose & Hollander Dental Associates in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, agrees.

“You want to neutralize those acids as quickly as possible. So even if you’re drinking orange juice for breakfast – taking a sip of water and rinsing your mouth back and forth for 10 to 15 seconds is more than enough to really shorten remineralization time,” Hollander tells VERIFY.

In addition to brushing teeth, Mayo Clinic recommends following the tips below to help keep your mouth healthy:

• Use dental floss daily.
• Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing.
• Drink a lot of water.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary foods and drinks.
• Avoid frequent snacking.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are uneven or crooked.
• Schedule regular dental checkups with X-rays and cleanings.