Dental Health Tip: Brushing Your Teeth After Eating Acidic Foods

To protect your teeth and prevent cavities, it is recommended to brush twice a day along with daily flossing. Did you know, however, that it is important to consider when you brush your teeth as well?
Eating and drinking acidic foods effects the condition of your enamel, and if you brush your teeth immediately afterward, you can brush away your enamel bit by bit.  If you know that you will be eating acidic foods, it is best to brush your teeth first.  Despite the well-known fact that toothpaste and orange juice make for a bad tasting combination, it is the taste of a healthy, well protected, mouth.

If you do not get the chance to brush your teeth first, wait to brush at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic food and drinks.  Common acidic food and drinks include Soda, beer, wine, hard liquor, dairy products, berries, vinegar, cocoa and anything high in sugar.  Be especially aware of sticky foods such as caramel, toffee, licorice.  They pose a greater danger to teeth due to their consistency, as sticky food can become lodged in hard to clean crevices, especially the occlusal surface of molars.