Is it safe to drink water in the morning before brushing up?

The acid in the stomach will kill the bacteria in the water.

If this applies to you (no shame!

alt

Is it preferable to drink coffee before or after brushing your teeth?

On this point, Dr. Huang says that java drinkers should be more cautious.

In fact, she says that brushing your teeth right after getting your caffeine fix is strongly discouraged.

Photography of a apple juice in glasses and apples in a wicker basket on wooden table

dentist and the founder and CEO of Les Belles NYC

Keep in mind that this only applies to brushing your teethimmediatelyafter finishing your coffee.

you’re free to still brush your teeth.

Dr. Huang advises waiting at least 30 minutes to an hour.

red pigment in a wooden spoon

After the 30-minute mark, your enamel has re-hardened and wont be removed by brushing, she says.

Is there an ideal time to wait before drinking water or coffee after brushing?

How to keep your teeth looking good if youre a coffee drinker

1.

alt

Next, Dr. Huang recommends using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue.

And lastly, finish with an alcohol-free mouth rinse.

The most important items are daily flossing and twice-daily brushing, Dr. Huang says.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

dentist and the founder and CEO of Les Belles NYC

Adding a mouthwash to your oral-care routine is also a great idea.

A mouthwash can help further remove bacteria, plaque, and debris, plus keep your breath fresh.

Check out Dr. Huangstop recommended whitening productshere.

A hand is stirring a sourdough starter in a glass jar, on a kitchen countertop. The light casts a warm glow, highlighting the ingredients inside the jar.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.