Brushing After Soda

Although individuals may think that brushing their teeth right after drinking a soda is proper oral care, research suggests that this practice may do more harm than good. In fact, it is better to wait 30 to 60 minutes before brushing. Because carbonated beverages are very acidic and have the potential to damage a tooth?s enamel, dentists from G?ttingen University in Germany conducted a study to determine the best time to brush after drinking carbonated beverages.

The study?s results showed that brushing later, rather than right away, is 3 to 5 times more effective at protecting enamel from the deteriorating effects of carbonated beverages. A researcher said that tooth enamel appears to undergo less damage when brushing happens after the tooth has had a chance to build a defense against acidic erosion.