As a dentist, I obviously want you brushing your teeth twice a day. But there are actually a few times when brushing your teeth right away can do more harm than good.
Number one: right after eating or drinking something acidic. Think citrus fruits, lemon water, soda, wine, or other acidic foods and drinks. Acid temporarily softens the outer surface of your enamel.
If you immediately go in with a toothbrush, you can contribute to wearing away that softened enamel.
Instead, rinse your mouth with water and wait about 30 minutes before brushing to give your saliva time to help neutralize the acids.
Number two: right after throwing up or having acid reflux. This is a big one.
Stomach acid is extremely acidic, and when it comes into contact with your teeth, the last thing you want to do is immediately scrub that acid into the enamel with a toothbrush.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water first and give your mouth some time to recover before you brush.
Number three: immediately after whitening your teeth. Whitening can temporarily make your teeth more sensitive, so this is not the time to aggressively brush them.
Follow the instructions for the specific whitening treatment you’re using, and if your teeth are feeling sensitive, give them some time before brushing.
So yes, you should absolutely be brushing your teeth twice a day, but when you brush matters just as much.