Brushing after vomiting can cause tooth decay –Physician warns

A medical expert, Dr. Toluwani Binutu, has warned against brushing of teeth immediately after vomiting, noting that it can weaken the enamel, lead to decay or cause other dental issues.

The UK-based physician, however, said such dangers might not arise after every single episode of vomiting, but that it was important for people to take the right step to avoid enamel erosion.

Giving this warning on his Instagram handle @tolubinutu, he explained that stomach acid that comes into the mouth when a person vomits can weaken the enamel once the tooth is brushed immediately.

“When we vomit, we bring up bile, stomach acid and the food in our stomach. The stomach acid that comes into our mouth when we vomit weakens the enamel of our teeth.

“So, when we brush the teeth immediately after vomiting, this can cause erosion of the enamel and lead to dental problems in the future.

“This may not be a problem after a single episode of vomiting, but it is important for us to know the right steps to take after vomiting.” Dr. Binutu said.

The physician advised that after vomiting, “Rinse your mouth as soon as you can, first with water then mouthwash, wait for 30 minutes then brush the teeth (and tongue) normally without excessive force.”

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According to WebMD, an online health site, tooth erosion happens when acids wear away the enamel on teeth.

The site warned against the consumption of food high in starch and sugary drinks as they can cause enormous damage to the enamel.

“Bacteria in your mouth thrive on sugar, and they make acids that can eat away at the enamel. It gets worse if you don’t clean your teeth regularly. Fruit drinks – Some acids in fruit drinks are more erosive than battery acid.

“Sour foods or candies also have a lot of acid. Dry mouth or low saliva flow (xerostomia) – Saliva helps prevent tooth decay by washing away bacteria and leftover food in your mouth. It also brings acids to an acceptable level. Acid reflux disease or heartburn -These bring stomach acids up to the mouth, where they can damage enamel,” the site stated.