A dentist has weighed in on the long-standing debate over whether to brush your teeth before or after breakfast. Mahesh, from the Bupa Dental Care UK channel on TikTok, advises that brushing before breakfast is generally better for most people.
In the video, Mahesh explains that you should wait at least half an hour after brushing before eating. If you brush after eating, you should also wait at least half an hour. This is because saliva needs time to neutralise dietary sugars and acids; brushing too soon can spread acid around the mouth.
Brushing first thing in the morning is beneficial because saliva has had time overnight to buffer acids, making it a more effective time to clean. The NHS recommends brushing twice a day for about two minutes with fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup.
Online comments reflect mixed habits. One Reddit user noted that their dentist said brushing in the morning removes overnight plaque, while another said they brush first thing to protect enamel with fluoride before breakfast. However, some find it impractical to wait after breakfast, as they need to leave for work.
