Patty Cabo, dentist: "Don't brush your teeth right after eating."

Since we were children, many of us have been taught to brush our teeth right after every meal . However, Patty Cabo , a dentist and TikTok content creator, questions this common habit and warns about its potential negative effects on oral health.

The specialist has revealed some reasons why this behavior could be harmful.

The risk of wearing down tooth enamel

According to the dentist, after eating, tooth enamel , the outermost layer of the tooth, becomes softer, increasing its vulnerability. "If we brush at this time, we can wear down the tooth enamel," she explained. This seemingly harmless action can cause long-term effects, such as increased tooth sensitivity , which causes pain when eating hot or cold foods.

This wear can not only affect tooth sensitivity, but also their appearance . Constant exposure to enamel wear can increase the likelihood of teeth breaking or acquiring a yellowish hue, which affects dental aesthetics.

"If we brush our teeth immediately after eating, we increase our chances of developing cracked teeth, yellow stains, and even cavities."

Beyond aesthetics: risks to dental health

The dentist also warns that brushing immediately after meals can lead to other oral problems. "If we brush our teeth immediately after eating, we increase the likelihood of suffering from cracked teeth, yellow stains, and even cavities ," Cabo noted. These problems are a consequence of the damage caused by brushing teeth when they are in a more vulnerable state.

Wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating to brush your teeth.

Therefore, although many consider immediate brushing essential for keeping the mouth clean, this habit could actually be counterproductive in the long run . According to the expert, it's crucial to allow tooth enamel to recover before brushing.

Patty Cabo's recommendation

The dentist recommends waiting 15 to 20 minutes after eating before brushing. This brief period allows the enamel to harden again and reduces the risk of damaging it. This way, you can maintain proper oral hygiene without compromising your dental health.

This advice, although surprising to many, is essential to prevent long-term dental problems and ensure a healthy smile.