Protecting the teeth during winter sickness

Dental professionals urge patients to avoid brushing their teeth too quickly after being sickness, to help protect the teeth against long-term tooth damage.

As reported by The Dentist, new data has been released by the UK Health Securing Agency confirmed that cases of norovirus (the winter vomiting bug) surged in the first two weeks of January.

Whilst many people wish to clean their teeth as soon as possible after sickness, brushing immediately can weaken the teeth and increase the risk of long lasting damage.

This is because the teeth have been exposed to strong stomach acids, which temporarily soften the enamel. As such, brushing the teeth at this time can scrub the acid-softened enamel, increasing erosion and the risk of decay.

Instead, dentists advise:

• Rinsing the mouth gently with water to wash away acid
• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing, giving the saliva time to neutralise and the enamel to re-harden
• Use fluoride toothpaste to help remineralise enamel and provide extra protection against acid
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva and neutralise acid
• Monitor enamel health, especially if being sick frequently, attending regular dental check ups to protect long term dental health

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