The article emphasizes the importance of brushing teeth twice daily for maintaining dental health while highlighting situations when it’s best to wait before brushing. Notably, brushing immediately after meals and sweets or after vomiting can damage enamel due to acidity. Recommendations include waiting at least an hour to avoid harming teeth. Additionally, it features a review of electric toothbrushes, showcasing the best models tested by Stiftung Warentest.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for good dental health, and it’s recommended to brush your teeth twice daily—once in the morning and once before bed. To ensure effective cleaning, start with the chewing surfaces, then move to the outer surfaces, and finally focus on the inner surfaces. Not only do bright white teeth indicate excellent dental care, but they also contribute to an attractive smile.
Nevertheless, there are specific occasions when it’s advisable to delay brushing your teeth, as doing so can harm your enamel instead of protecting it, according to a dental expert.
Tooth Brushing: When to Hold Off
After Breakfast
Dr. Shaadi Manouchehri explains in an Instagram video that brushing your teeth right after breakfast is not recommended. After a meal, your mouth becomes acidic. If you brush at this time, you risk spreading the acid over your enamel, which can erode its mineral composition and lead to tooth damage.
After Eating Sweets
The London-based dentist advises waiting at least an hour after consuming sweets before brushing your teeth. During this time, bacteria in your mouth break down the sugars, leading to acid formation. Brushing immediately after indulging can push this acid onto your enamel, which can contribute to wear. Thus, it is best to postpone brushing for at least an hour.
After Vomiting
Similarly, after vomiting, it’s also best to refrain from brushing right away. The contents of your stomach are highly acidic, and if they enter your mouth, they can compromise your enamel. Instead of brushing, rinse your mouth with water or use mouthwash. Once an hour has passed, you can safely brush your teeth.
For those looking to upgrade their dental care routine, Stiftung Warentest frequently evaluates electric toothbrushes. Find the top-rated electric toothbrushes and expert buying tips, including cost-effective alternatives.
Top Electric Toothbrushes Evaluated by Stiftung Warentest (63 Models Reviewed)
Test Winner
Price Tip
Also Good and Affordable
Excellent Cleaning Performance
December 2023
November 2021
February 2023
Oscillating-Rotating
Vibration (Sonic)
‘Good’ (Grade 1.8)
‘Very Good’ (Grade 1.2)
Charging Stations Available
Average Prices: approx. 8.50 Euro to over 300 Euro
This article was originally published by our colleagues at focus.de