Myth Busting: Should I brush before or after breakfast?
If you've eaten or drunk anything acidic, your tooth enamel becomes temporarily softer. Brushing straight away can gradually wear away your enamel.
Common acidic breakfast foods include:
• Orange juice
• Grapefruit
• Berries
• Tomatoes
• Coffee
• Smoothies
Even healthy breakfasts can be acidic!
🕒 What should you do instead?
✔️ Brush before breakfast to remove overnight plaque.
OR
✔️ Wait 30–60 minutes after eating before brushing
💧 While you wait...
• Rinse with water.
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva.
• Let your saliva naturally neutralise the acids.
✨ The Takeaway
It's not just whether you brush...
It's when you brush that helps protect your enamel and keep your smile healthy.
Myth busted:
You should brush your teeth BEFORE breakfast or 1 hour after
If you’re looking for a dentist near you in Essex, our Colchester dentists at Dental Smiles Flagstaff can help. We are located at 1 Flagstaff Rd, St John's Green, Colchester CO2 7SP. Contact us on info@dentalsmilesflagstaff.co.uk or 01206 803870
