Have you ever followed up a two-minute brush with a glass of fresh orange juice? For those who have tried this, you know how unpleasant it tastes!
Let’s take a look at why OJ is the last thing you want after you brush your teeth.
The Offending Ingredient
Sodium laureth sulfate (SLS) is the reason behind this phenomenon. SLS is an additive that is used in products like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste to create a foamy, bubbly texture. Although we all like bubbles, SLS suppresses your taste buds, which can mess with how you perceive flavors.
Phospholipids are also responsible here; these fatty molecules are located on your tongue and dull down bitter flavors. But, when SLS and phospholipids meet, bitter flavoring becomes much more apparent.
Voila! This is why your OJ tastes so bad. But, what can you do about it?
Controlling SLS
SLS does give off a nice texture that makes our mouths feel clean, but it isn’t necessary. There are plenty of toothpastes on the market that are SLS-free. With SLS-free paste, you can enjoy your OJ after a brush.
If you would rather not give up the sudsy feel in your toothpaste, you can try chewing sugar-free gum or drinking water before going for a tall glass of vitamin c.
Why Not Brush Your Teeth After Breakfast?
Brushing your teeth after breakfast seems like a great way to avoid this dilemma entirely, however brushing after consuming acidic substances can do more harm than good.
Acidic beverages and foods increase pH levels in your mouth, which temporarily weaken your enamel. By choosing to brush right after drinking OJ, you are increasing your odds of discomfort and potential cosmetic damage. We always recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before eating.
Enjoy your Juice and Your Smile
We hope this information will help you make responsible choices about your brushing habits! Learn more about SLS-free toothpaste.