Should You Brush Right After Eating? | Pediatric Dentist Henrico VA

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Should You Brush Right After Eating? | Pediatric Dentist Henrico VA

Pediatric Dentist in Short Pump - Pediatric Dentist in Mechanicsville

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. Our pediatric dentist in 23233 says that 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.

Our dental team in Henrico recommends to 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 office for an exam and we can give you tips for healthy, strong teeth. Call our pediatric dental office in Henrico, VA today.

Sparkle Pediatric Dentistry of Mechanicsville
Phone: 804-746-7382
8203 Center Path Lane
Mechanicsville, VA 23116

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Best Pediatric Dentist in Mechanicsville and Short Pump

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Mechanicsville, VA and Henrico, VA Pediatric Dentist

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Best Pediatric Dentist in Mechanicsville and Short Pump

Our practice has always had the very highest of standards when it comes to your health and that hasn’t changed. Every time you visit our office, our primary goal is to ensure you and your child’s health and your safety

We continue to maintain and uphold the requirements set forth by the CDC, OSHA, and the ADA in regards to sanitation and infection control, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for all.

Two Locations for Your Convenience

Mechanicsville, VA and Henrico, VA Pediatric Dentist

Mechanicsville Pediatric Dental Office

8302 Center Path Lane
Mechanicsville, VA 23116

Office Hours

Monday: 8AM – 5PM
Tuesday: 8AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 5PM
Thursday: 8AM – 5PM
Friday: 8AM – 2PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Short Pump Pediatric Dental Office

11934 W. Broad St. Suite 120
Henrico, VA 23233

Office Hours

Monday: 8AM – 5PM
Tuesday: 8AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 5PM
Thursday: 8AM – 5PM
Friday: 8AM – 2PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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Mechanicsville, VA and Henrico, VA Pediatric Dentist