How long should one wait to take an oral temperature after eating or drinking?

To accurately measure oral temperature, it's important to consider the influence of recent food or drink consumption. The correct waiting period is 10-20 minutes after eating or drinking before taking an oral temperature. This time frame allows for the mouth to return to its normal temperature, thus ensuring that the reading reflects the person's core body temperature rather than the temperature of the substances just consumed.

If a person takes their temperature immediately after eating or drinking, it may result in a falsely low or high reading depending on whether they consumed hot or cold items. The selected wait time balances thoroughness and practicality, allowing for a sufficient recovery period without unnecessarily delaying the assessment.