Annapolis Dentist

Should You Brush Right After Eating? | Todd Patton, DDS

People eating at picnic table Dentist Near Me

Enamel is the guardian of your teeth and the hardest material in the body. It’s the first defense against harmful bacteria which may lead to tooth decay. When you eat certain foods, it creates bacteria which attack your tooth enamel. Carbohydrates and sugary foods are examples of these foods. Brushing directly after eating can be harmful to your enamel.

Why this is a problem

When eating or drinking, the pH balance in your mouth changes. After each bite of acidic food, the pH balance moves towards a level which causes demineralization. The new acidity softens the enamel which can cause bacteria to get into the teeth. Brushing right after you eat may damage your enamel. This is important because enamel protects your teeth from damage.  

Steps you can take to protect your enamel:

If you’ve had anything acidic, don’t brush for at least 30 minutes. 

Fruits with citric acid are one example. If you are planning ingesting acidic foods or drinks, you can brush beforehand.

A glass of water will help remove the acid. Follow this by chewing sugarless gum. These steps help create saliva which will help bring back the necessary pH balance needed for a healthy smile.

Try to avoid soda as prolonged phosphoric acid can cause permanent damage.

Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important habit for optimal oral health. 

Have you ever been told you should brush your teeth right after eating? While this may sound like the right habit to adapt, this practice could be detrimental to the health of your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating may be a better option to keep enamel strong. Visit our Dentist Annapolis, MD office for an exam and we can give you tips for healthy, strong teeth. Call our Annapolis Dentist office today. 

Patton Smiles of Annapolis
Phone: (410) 295-1000
Url: https://annapolis.dental/
104 Forbes St., Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401

Dentist in Annapolis

We Welcome New Patients

Patton Smiles

104 Forbes St. Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000

Providing Dental Care For the Communities of:

Annapolis, Admiral Heights, West Annapolis, Loretta Heights, Eastport, Forest Villa & surrounding areas

Convenient Office Hours:

Monday: 7:00am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Friday: By Appointment only

Become a New Patient
  • America Dental Association
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Dental Society of Anesthesiology: ADSA
  • Maryland State Dental Association

Annapolis, MD Dentist

See What Our Patients Are Saying

Dentist in Annapolis

I am very pleased that I found Patton Smiles. My husband and I have received outstanding care and the staff is wonderful! We never have to wait when we have an appointment and all of the staff are very professional and caring. The office is immaculate. I highly recommend this dental practice.

Priscilla P. Admiral Heights, MD Dental Patient

Dentist in Annapolis

I’ve been seeing Dr Patton for several years, he is always smiling and will go above and beyond to help with your needs. The staff is amazing and always helpful. I would and have recommended Patton Smiles to several of my friends who also go there.

Nancy M.

Dentist in Annapolis

By far the best dentist office, service and staff in all of Maryland!! Dr. Patton is great and passionate about his work. The staff is so kind and pleasant to deal with. I’ve referred everyone I know here!

Elaine E.

Read More

Annapolis Dental Office

Read Our Annapolis Dental News

104 Forbes Street
Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000