What does your morning routine look like? An intense gym session followed by a cold shower? Or are you hitting the snooze button multiple times before getting out of bed? We all start our days differently – and that even extends to how we clean our teeth......READ THE FULL STORY>>.....READ THE FULL STORY>>
In fact, one of the most contested dentistry questions revolves around that – should you brush before or after your breakfast? Principal dentist at MKDental, Dr Jay Joshi, has now shared his thoughts and explains the science behind his reasoning.
“If you don’t brush your teeth after breakfast, several oral health issues can arise,” warned Dr Joshi. Eating breakfast leaves behind food particles and sugars in the mouth, which is exactly what bacteria in your mouth thrive on. “These bacteria form plaque, a sticky film that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed,” he confirmed to the Express.
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Plaque creates acids that can erode the tooth enamel, which can lead to cavities over time. And it also irritates the gums, which can result in gum disease and bad breath. Furthermore, he warns that people who brush their teeth before breakfast could also contribute to tooth sensitivity.
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There is an important caveat when it comes to brushing after breakfast, however. Acidic food and drinks for breakfast, such as orange juice, can temporarily soften tooth enamel, so it’s better to hold on before you start scrubbing. “Waiting about 30 minutes after eating allows your saliva to help neutralise acids and remineralise your teeth, reducing the risk of damage,” Dr Joshi explained.
Not everyone agrees with other dentists extolling the benefits of brushing your teeth first thing in the morning. But ultimately, the most crucial aspect of good oral hygiene is to maintain a consistent and thorough routine that includes brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups.
According to the NHS, “As a general rule you should be brushing your teeth twice a day. One of those times should be just before you go to sleep at night. Going to sleep with plaque on your teeth can allow plaque to calcify. Once the plaque on your teeth has calcified you can’t remove it with normal brushing, instead it will need to be removed by a dentist or hygienist.”
“In addition to brushing before bed you should brush your teeth at one other time during the day. When it comes to brushing your teeth, remember twice a day for 2 minutes at a time. Use the timer on your phone, put a clock in your bathroom or just keep an eye on your watch. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to advise you on your own individual brushing needs based on your own dental health, history and needs.”
