A medical professional has warned that you might have been “brushing your teeth wrong your whole life”. The expert suggests there’s a specific time in the morning when you should be cleaning your teeth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Neglecting it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even loss of teeth.
While most of us are acquainted with the fundamental rule of brushing twice a day, there may be other essential guidelines that you’re unaware of.
In a video posted on the social media platform TikTok, NHS doctor Suraj Kukadia imparted some critical advice to his followers.
Dr Kukadia, who is more commonly known online as Dr Sooj, posed the question: “Have you been brushing your teeth wrong your whole life?” He then disclosed that you should brush your teeth before breakfast rather than after.
He explained: “Did you know that you should be brushing your teeth before breakfast, not after? This is because every time you eat something, the pH of your mouth drops.
“This makes it more acidic. If you then brush your teeth straight away, you’re rubbing that acid into your teeth, which wears down your enamel, which is bad for the health of your teeth.
“Brushing your teeth before breakfast helps to remove the bacteria that’s built up overnight, and the fluoride in the toothpaste provides a protective layer for the rest of the day.”
As for brushing your teeth at night, he advised waiting “at least” 30 minutes after eating.
Dr Sooj explained: “In the evening, make sure you wait at least 30 minutes after you’ve eaten or drank something before you brush your teeth.”
His guidance is supported by dental expert Dr Deepa Chopra from Whites Dental.
Speaking previously with Surrey Live, she said: “A good rule of thumb is to brush your teeth before breakfast and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
“Brushing before breakfast helps remove overnight bacteria and plaque that have built up. Rinsing with water after your meal can help wash away food particles and acids without damaging the enamel.”
She specifically warned that cleaning your teeth immediately following meals could harm your enamel – the tooth’s protective outer coating.
Dr Deepa said: “Brushing your teeth immediately after eating might seem logical for fresh breath, but it can damage your enamel. Your enamel softens temporarily when you eat, especially foods high in acids.
“Brushing during this vulnerable period can wear away the softened enamel, which leads to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of discolouration.”
Rather than rushing to brush, she suggested allowing “about 30 minutes after eating” to permit your saliva to naturally counteract the acids present in your mouth.
For optimal dental health, the NHS advises you to:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Clean between your teeth
- Cut down on sugar
- Quit smoking
- Limit your alcohol intake
- Have regular dental check-ups
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
