A medical professional has disclosed the optimal time to brush your teeth in the morning, warning that doing so at the wrong moment risks wearing down your enamel and gums. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential, as neglect can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. While many people are aware of the fundamental rule of brushing twice daily, certain other crucial guidelines may be overlooked.
Expert Advice on Morning Brushing
In a video shared on TikTok, Doctor Suraj Kukadia, known online as Dr Sooj, addressed the common dilemma: should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? He stated: "Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? Well, this is a highly debated topic, but the answer is you should brush your teeth before breakfast."
Dr Kukadia elaborated on the reasoning behind this recommendation. He explained that the fluoride in toothpaste provides a protective layer against the acids present in food and drink consumed during breakfast. "Orange juice is a particular culprit. If you brush your teeth after breakfast, you're just rubbing all of that acid into your teeth, which will wear down your enamel and your gums," he said.
Additional Guidance
He continued: "You should also brush your teeth just before bed. So twice a day before breakfast and just before bed." His advice is supported by dentist Dr Deepa Chopra from Whites Dental. Speaking previously to Surrey Live, she said: "A good rule of thumb is to brush your teeth before breakfast and rinse your mouth with water afterwards."
Dr Chopra explained that brushing before breakfast helps remove overnight bacteria and plaque buildup. Rinsing with water after a meal can wash away food particles and acids without damaging enamel. She explicitly warned against brushing immediately after eating, as this can erode the protective outer layer of teeth.
"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," she said. "Brushing during this vulnerable period can wear away the softened enamel, which leads to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of discolouration." Instead, she suggested waiting about 30 minutes after eating before brushing, allowing saliva to naturally counteract the acids in the mouth.
NHS Recommendations for Healthy Teeth
To maintain healthy teeth, the NHS recommends:
- 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
If you have any concerns about your teeth, you should consult your dentist.
