The member of the clinical innovation and care quality team at Sanitas Dental, Antonio Longo, recommends waiting about 30 minutes before brushing teeth after consuming highly acidic foods or drinks, since, before that time, the enamel "is temporarily more susceptible to erosion and abrasion."
"Enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth and acts as a protective barrier," he pointed out, specifying that this structure is especially affected by products like juices, dressings, or gazpachos, which temporarily reduce the pH of the oral cavity. "If brushing is done forcefully right at that moment, the progressive wear is greater, which increases sensitivity," he added.
According to the 'Oral Health Study' by the insurer Sanitas, 79.8 percent of citizens in Spain claim to have suffered some dental problem in the last twelve months. Among the most common is dental sensitivity, which affects 37.5 percent of the population, a discomfort that worsens when the enamel deteriorates or is exposed to stimuli like cold or heat.
In this context, Longo emphasized that saliva plays a key role, as it helps to neutralize acids and gradually restore the balance of the mouth. Therefore, he insisted on the advisability of respecting those 30 minutes of margin, and highlighted that "during that time, one option is to rinse with water to facilitate the cleaning of residues without subjecting the enamel to immediate friction."
He also warned that the danger is not only related to the type of food but also to the frequency of consumption and the way oral hygiene is performed. In this regard, he indicated that those with receding gums, wearing braces, suffering from bruxism, or having a history of dental sensitivity tend to perceive these discomforts more intensely.
Recommendations to protect enamel
With the aim of preserving enamel without neglecting oral cleanliness, Longo detailed that when acidic foods are included in a complete meal, their impact is usually less than if they are consumed alone between meals. Furthermore, he emphasized that it is preferable to choose whole fruit over juices, and reminded that whitening pastes should be used in moderation.
On the other hand, it has warned that isotonic drinks are not harmless for dentition, an opinion shared by the nutritionist of Blua de Sanitas, Eva Bautista, who has emphasized that "for most people, water is enough to maintain adequate hydration." Finally, Longo has highlighted that "a professional assessment through video consultation helps to detect possible alterations in time and to decide if it is necessary to go to a clinic for a complete examination."