Helena Rodero, pharmacist: "Never brush your teeth after eating. Wait at least half an hour to avoid damaging the enamel."

Brushing your teeth after every meal seems like a healthy habit , but it can be harmful to tooth enamel. After eating, the pH of the mouth drops, making the surface of the teeth more vulnerable. In this context, using the brush immediately can promote enamel wear, weakening its protective function. Therefore, oral hygiene experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing.

Pharmacist Helena Rodero emphasizes the importance of this habit: “ Never brush your teeth after eating. Wait at least half an hour to avoid damaging the enamel .” She also warns about other common mistakes related to toothbrush use, such as brushing technique or how to hold it. “ You shouldn't hold the toothbrush like a knife, but rather like a pencil, and you should massage in circles, not up and down, as we've always been taught, ” she points out. Proper technique can make a noticeable difference in long-term oral health.

Tips for more hygienic brushing

Another aspect the specialist emphasizes is toothbrush storage. If it's stored near the toilet, it can be exposed to bacteria from the environment. Rodero recommends keeping it away or, alternatively, " keeping it in a drawer or closet " if you don't have the appropriate space. Added to this is the need to clean it daily : " Wash your toothbrush every day with soap. Any soap. It doesn't have to be special ." These simple guidelines can prevent infections and keep your toothbrush in optimal condition.

The expert also questions the frequent use of mouthwash and emphasizes the importance of rinsing your mouth before brushing. “ Rinse your mouth before brushing your teeth. This removes food residue and prevents it from getting stuck on the toothbrush and rotting, ” she points out. Finally, she warns about a common morning gesture: “ Never eat breakfast without rinsing your mouth. Or you'll carry all those bacteria down (to your stomach) .” Daily actions that, when applied with knowledge, protect oral health from the first moment of the day.