The biggest mistake you can make with this common symptom of norovirus as cases surge
Dentists are urging people to avoid this common mistake after being sick 🦷
- Cases of norovirus have surged 61% in two weeks.
- Symptoms of norovirus can include vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
- Dentists are urging people to avoid this common mistake after being sick.
Cases of norovirus have surged by 61% in the last two weeks, according to the latest data by the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA).
Also known as the winter vomiting bug, it is highly contagious, spreading easily through close contact and comes with unpleasant symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea.
During norovirus outbreaks, dentists see an increase in patients presenting with tooth sensitivity. They are now urging people to avoid the most common mistake after being sick.
While the most natural reaction after throwing up is to brush your teeth to remove the taste and smell, dental experts say that brushing immediately after can weaken teeth and increase the risk of long-term damage.
Vomiting exposes the teeth to strong stomach acids, which temporarily soften the tooth enamel. Brushing teeth during this period can scrub the acid deeper into the enamel, increasing erosion, sensitivity and the risk of tooth decay.
Dr Bhavika Parekh, General Dental Surgeon at Smile n Shine, said: “It’s a common misconception that brushing immediately after vomiting protects your teeth.”
“In reality, the enamel is temporarily weakened by stomach acid, so brushing too soon can worsen wear. Simple measures like rinsing with water or chewing sugar-free gum can help neutralise acid and protect teeth before you brush.”
How to protect your teeth from norovirus?
Dr Parekh has shared five tips for what to do instead of picking up your toothbrush after being sick when you have norovirus.
Rinse your mouth gently
Rinsing with plain water helps wash away acid without causing further abrasion, Dr Parekh explained, adding that a fluoride mouthwash can also help strengthen enamel during recovery.
Wait at least 30–60 minutes before brushing
Waiting gives saliva the time to neutralise acids and allows enamel to re-harden, reducing the risk of erosion when brushing resumes.
Use fluoride toothpaste when you do brush
Fluoride helps re-mineralise enamel and provides extra protection after acid exposure.
Chew sugar-free gum if needed
Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which naturally neutralises acid and supports enamel repair.
Monitor enamel if vomiting happens frequently
Repeated vomiting from norovirus can increase enamel wear. Regular check-ups with a dentist help detect early signs of erosion and protect long-term tooth health.
Dr Parekh said: “During norovirus outbreaks, we often see a rise in patients experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity or enamel wear weeks later. In many cases, it’s linked to brushing too soon after vomiting, rather than poor hygiene.”
Cases of norovirus are continuing to rise. Take these 3 steps to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious winter vomiting bug.