Typically, you can't go wrong with brushing your teeth. It gets rid of bacteria and plaque before it can harden and become tartar, after all. It protects your gums and prevents gum disease and cavities. But if you don't know that there's one time that you shouldn't brush your teeth, it could end up hurting you in the long run. Here's what you need to know about when you shouldn't brush your teeth.

Drinking Acidic Things 

Do you ever drink anything acidic? That is, juice, flavored teas, coffee, or other acidic beverages? If so, you might be hurting your teeth more than you realize. You should never brush your teeth after drinking one of these beverages for a very good reason.

What it Does

When you drink an acidic beverage, it has an actual impact on your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel can be damaged by things, but it can also be softened. This is exactly what happens when you drink one of these beverages.

When the acidic beverage washes over your teeth, the tooth enamel becomes softer. It won't last forever, but it's important to know how you should treat your teeth while the enamel is softened.

Why It's Dangerous

Tooth enamel is designed to deal with a whole lot of abuse. After all, you go through your whole day chewing, eating, and perhaps even engaging in bad habits like biting your nails, and your tooth enamel is still there through thick and thin.

Unfortunately, the same can't be said when tooth enamel is softened. While it's in this softened state, it can be easily scratched, damaged, and hurt by even something like brushing your teeth. This also includes flossing. As a result, you should never try to floss or brush immediately after having an acidic beverage or food.

What to Do

The good news is, there isn't a whole lot you have to do to be able to get back to brushing again.

You can either cut out acidic things completely or keep them away from the times that you brush your teeth. If you brush twice a day - in the evening and morning - try to stick to sipping your acidic drinks after brushing, or during lunchtime. This will allow your tooth enamel to re-harden on its own long before you have to brush.

If you just can't give up your acidic beverages, instead try to rinse your mouth with water a few minutes before you brush. This will help to loosen and remove the acidic compounds and start the hardening process of your tooth enamel more quickly.

With these tips in mind, you shouldn't be at risk of hurting your tooth enamel anymore. However, if you've been brushing close to when you drink something acidic, you should consider seeing your dentist ASAP to treat any damage that's been done.