Most people are taught from a young age to brush their teeth as soon as they wake up and before they go to bed. While this routine keeps our teeth healthy, dental expert Dr. Zaeem from Ordo suggests there’s actually a “perfect time” for brushing that can maximize long-term dental health.
According to Dr. Zaeem, brushing at 7:15 AM is the ideal time to clean your teeth after waking up. During sleep, bacteria that cause plaque multiply, leading to that “morning breath” and a less-than-fresh feeling. The longer you stay in bed, the more time this bacteria has to grow. Brushing early with fluoride toothpaste helps to eliminate plaque and bacteria before breakfast, protecting your teeth from acid damage throughout the day.
Another benefit of brushing before breakfast is that it jump-starts saliva production. Saliva naturally breaks down food and kills harmful bacteria, supporting a healthy smile. Dr. Zaeem warns against brushing immediately after eating breakfast, as doing so can trap acidic food remnants, further weakening your enamel. Popular breakfast foods like orange juice and cereals are particularly harsh on tooth enamel.
For your second daily brush, Dr. Zaeem advises making it the very last thing you do at night, ideally minutes before going to bed. He emphasizes that nothing but water should be consumed after this final brush, ensuring the best protection for your teeth while you sleep.
By following these expert recommendations, including brushing at the right times, you can improve your oral hygiene and maintain healthier teeth for years to come.
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