If you brush your teeth right after that morning coffee, you need to stop now

Brushing your teeth is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene, but did you know that brushing right after drinking coffee might not be the best idea? 

Coffee is a popular beverage that many of us enjoy daily, but it can have some surprising effects on our teeth. According to dentist and content creator Dr Sara Alhammadi, you should wait for 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after drinking coffee. “Think twice before brushing right after coffee!” she cautions her followers. 

In this article, we will explore whether you should wait before brushing your teeth after having coffee and why timing might matter more than you think.

Effects of coffee on tooth enamel

Dr Prerna Pahuja, senior consultant orthodontist and founder at Align Dental Clinic, Dwarka, agrees with Dr Alhammadi, “Coffee is a beloved daily ritual for many, but it comes with some downsides for dental health. Beyond causing visible staining, coffee can lead to permanent enamel damage and tooth decay, especially when consumed with sugar.”

The acidity in coffee temporarily weakens tooth enamel, she informs, making it more susceptible to damage. “Brushing immediately after drinking coffee can exacerbate this damage as the enamel is still soft and can be worn down by the abrasive action of the toothbrush. This can lead to enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity, cavities, and noticeable discoloration. Additionally, high sugar content can contribute to sore or bleeding gums and periodontal disease.”

Drinking coffee through a straw can minimise contact with your teeth (Source: Freepik)

Optimal time to wait before brushing

To minimise enamel damage, it’s best to wait at least 30 minutes after drinking coffee before brushing your teeth, Dr Pahuja says. This waiting period allows your saliva to neutralise the acid and start re-mineralising your enamel. During this time, rinsing your mouth with water can help remove coffee residues and reduce acidity, she says, offering additional protection for your enamel. 

Waiting before brushing helps your enamel regain strength, making it less prone to damage and supporting long-term oral health.

Effective toothpaste ingredients

When dealing with coffee stains, it’s important to choose the right toothpaste. Dr Pahuja recommends opting for a toothpaste with low abrasive content (RDA value between 30-80) to protect the enamel while effectively cleaning your teeth. 

She explains, “Ingredients like baking soda can gently remove surface stains. Fluoride is essential for strengthening enamel and preventing decay, ensuring your teeth remain strong and healthy. While whitening toothpaste can help maintain brightness, it should be used sparingly to avoid excessive abrasion. For personalised advice, consult your dentist based on your oral health needs.”

Alternative oral hygiene practices

According to Dr Pahuja, one can follow these hygiene practices to ensure that their teeth are strong and healthy, despite drinking coffee:

*Drinking water helps hydrate you and flush away food particles and excess bacteria that accumulate after coffee intake.

*Use a straw, as drinking coffee through a straw can minimise contact with your teeth, reducing the risk of staining and acid damage.

*Rinse your mouth with water after drinking coffee can help wash away residues and neutralise acids.

*Chew sugar-free gum as it can stimulate saliva production, which neutralises acids and cleanses your mouth, protecting your enamel and freshening your breath.

*Eat high-fibre foods like apples, carrots, and celery increases saliva flow and naturally cleanses your teeth.

*Use an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash can reduce bacteria and strengthen enamel without the abrasiveness of brushing, providing a quick and effective way to maintain oral hygiene on the go.

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