When one vomits, the mouth is filled with gastric acid which is very corrosive and capable of softening enamel-the tooth’s protective surface, temporarily.
The thing is:
If one brushes right after vomiting, one ends up scrubbing acid into that already softened enamel, causing much more erosion and therefore sensitivity, as time goes on.
This is especially relevant for:
Pregnant women having morning sickness
People with acid reflux, bulimia, or food poisoning
Students being affected by foodborne illness nausea or due to exam stress
What to Do Instead:
1. Rinse with plain water or baking soda solution (1 tsp in a cup of water) immediately as this neutralizes acid.
2. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to allow saliva to remineralize the enamel.
3. Drink water or chew sugar-free gum during the wait to stimulate saliva production.
Pro tip: Fluoride mouth rinse used nightly is an added protection for the enamel if vomiting is frequent.
