An NHS doctor has issued a stark warning that a common morning habit could be damaging your dental health, suggesting many people have been brushing their teeth incorrectly for years.
The Critical Timing Mistake
In a recent social media video, NHS GP Dr Suraj Kukadia, known online as Dr Sooj, posed a simple question to his followers: “Have you been brushing your teeth wrong your whole life?” His answer centred on a specific and often overlooked detail: the timing of your morning brush. Dr Kukadia advises brushing your teeth before breakfast, not after.
He explains the science behind this guidance. “Every time you eat something, the pH of your mouth drops. This makes it more acidic,” said Dr Sooj. “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.”
Protecting Your Enamel
This advice is strongly supported by dental professionals. Dr Deepa Chopra, a dentist from Whites Dental, speaking previously to Surrey Live, echoed the warning against brushing immediately after meals. She highlighted that enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, softens temporarily when you eat, particularly after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
“Brushing during this vulnerable period can wear away the softened enamel, which leads to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of discolouration,” Dr Chopra explained. Instead, she recommends waiting ‘about 30 minutes after eating’ before brushing. This allows your saliva to naturally neutralise the acids and for the enamel to re-harden.
The Correct Daily Routine
So, what is the optimal routine for protecting your teeth from decay and damage?
In the morning: Brush your teeth before breakfast. Dr Kukadia states this helps remove the bacteria that has built up overnight. Furthermore, the fluoride in your toothpaste then provides a protective layer for the day ahead. After eating, simply rinsing your mouth with water can help wash away food particles without harming the enamel.
In the evening: Dr Sooj is clear that you must wait ‘at least 30 minutes’ after your last meal or drink before brushing. This crucial pause safeguards your enamel from abrasive damage.
To maintain overall oral health, the NHS recommends a comprehensive approach:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
- Cut down on sugary foods and drinks.
- Quit smoking.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Attend regular dental check-ups as advised by your dentist.
By adjusting this one simple timing habit, you can significantly bolster your defence against tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion, ensuring a healthier smile long-term.
