Brushing your teeth is an essential part of maintaining oral hygiene, but the timing of when you brush can make a significant difference. Dr. Zaeem, a dentist from Ordo, provides insights into when and how to brush your teeth for the best results, explaining the importance of brushing first thing in the morning and before bed, as well as why brushing immediately after eating may harm your enamel.
Brushing your teeth early in the morning, around 7:15 AM, is ideal. Overnight, plaque-causing bacteria multiply in the mouth, leading to morning breath and a build-up of bacteria. The earlier you brush, the less time these bacteria have to grow. Using fluoride toothpaste in the morning helps eliminate the bacteria and creates a protective shield on the tooth enamel against acids from the foods you’ll eat throughout the day. Additionally, brushing before breakfast jump-starts saliva production, which helps to break down food and naturally combats harmful bacteria.
Evening brushing is equally crucial. Dr. Zaeem recommends making it the last activity before bed to ensure that your teeth are protected from bacteria while you sleep. After brushing, it’s best to avoid eating or drinking anything except water to keep your teeth clean overnight.
A common mistake is brushing right after breakfast. This can actually harm your teeth as acidic foods, such as orange juice and cereal, temporarily weaken enamel. Brushing too soon can spread the acid, further damaging the enamel. Instead, it’s better to wait 30 minutes to an hour after eating to allow the enamel to recover. If a quick refresh is needed, rinsing with water or mouthwash is a safer option.
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