Interesting about the mouthwash—I actually find it helpful, but I usually wait 15-20 mins after eating before using it. My dentist said giving your enamel a short break first helps avoid that harshness you're talking about. Might be worth trying?
Interesting point about waiting before using mouthwash—I heard something similar from my dentist about brushing too. Did your dentist mention anything specifically about acidic foods or drinks? Mine said it's especially important to wait a bit after stuff like citrus or soda because the acid temporarily softens enamel. Makes sense, I guess...but now I'm wondering if mouthwash timing matters even more after certain foods? Curious if anyone else heard this.
Yeah, your dentist is spot-on about acidic foods and drinks. Actually, mouthwash timing can matter quite a bit too, especially after consuming acidic stuff like citrus or soda. The acid softens your enamel temporarily, making it more vulnerable to abrasion or erosion—even from mouthwash. Some mouthwashes contain alcohol or other ingredients that can be harsh on softened enamel, so it's usually safer to wait at least 30 minutes after acidic foods before rinsing.
Personally, I'm always a bit cautious about recommending mouthwash right after meals anyway. I usually suggest rinsing with plain water first to neutralize acids and then waiting a bit before brushing or using mouthwash. It's a small habit change, but it can make a noticeable difference in protecting your teeth long-term. Better safe than sorry, right?
"Personally, I'm always a bit cautious about recommending mouthwash right after meals anyway."
Yeah, totally agree with this. I used to think mouthwash right after meals was the way to go—like, fresh breath and all that—but my dentist explained the same thing about acids softening enamel. It made sense once she broke it down for me.
I switched to just rinsing with water immediately after eating anything acidic (especially citrus fruits—I love oranges but man, they're sneaky harsh on teeth). Then I wait around half an hour before brushing or using mouthwash. Honestly, it took a bit of getting used to at first because I was so used to brushing right after breakfast. But now it's second nature, and I've noticed my teeth feel less sensitive overall.
Small changes like these really do add up over time... kinda wish I'd known sooner, but hey, better late than never, right?
Interesting points all around, but I think the mouthwash thing might depend on the type you're using. My dentist actually recommended an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash specifically meant to strengthen enamel. He said it's fine to use pretty soon after meals because it helps remineralize teeth rather than just freshening breath.
I mean, I get the logic about acids softening enamel—I totally hear you guys on that—but maybe it's more about what's actually in your mouthwash? I switched from a strong alcohol-based one (you know, the kind that burns like crazy) to a gentler fluoride rinse, and honestly, my teeth feel way better now. Less sensitivity overall and fewer of those weird little twinges when eating ice cream or drinking cold water.
Also, funny thing about citrus fruits... I'm a big lemon-water person, and my dentist basically gave me the same lecture about acid erosion. He suggested sipping through a straw (yeah, sounds silly but hey, it works) to limit acid contact with teeth. Took some getting used to but now it's habit. Maybe give it a shot if you're worried about oranges?
Anyway, just thought I'd throw that out there—sometimes it's not just timing but also product choice that makes the difference.
