Brushing Immediately After Waking Up Removes Bacteria and Plaque First
Brushing After Meals May Damage Enamel... Wait 30 Minutes
Experts: "Technique Matters More Than Timing"
Experts have analyzed that brushing your teeth before breakfast in the morning is more effective. They explain that removing bacteria and protecting your teeth immediately after waking up is advantageous for oral health management.
Anjali Rajpal, DDS, founder of Beverly Hills Dental Arts, and Steven J. Katz, president of the American Association of Endodontists, told the U.S. health magazine 'Women's Health' on August 18 (local time), "Assuming you brush your teeth only once in the morning, it is better to do so before breakfast."
"Brushing Immediately After Waking Up: The First Step to Oral Health"
Assuming brushing teeth only once in the morning, experts claim it is better to brush before breakfast. Photo by Pixabay
Dr. Katz explained, "During sleep, saliva production decreases, allowing bacteria and plaque to accumulate more easily. Therefore, brushing your teeth immediately after waking up is crucial not only for eliminating bad breath but also for removing bacteria that have built up overnight, which is very important for overall oral health." He added that for those who sleep with their mouths open, the mouth becomes even drier and bacteria multiply faster, making morning brushing even more necessary.
Dr. Rajpal also stated, "Mineral ingredients in toothpaste, such as fluoride, hydroxyapatite, and calcium phosphate, form a protective layer on the tooth surface," and added, "Brushing before eating can effectively protect your teeth from acidic foods or sugars consumed afterward."
"After Meals, Wait at Least 30 Minutes Before Brushing"
Brushing your teeth again after a meal may be beneficial, but for those with sensitive teeth, it can actually worsen the symptoms. Photo by Pixabay
Brushing your teeth after a meal is not necessarily bad. However, brushing immediately after drinking acidic beverages such as coffee or fruit juice can accelerate enamel erosion, as the enamel is in a weakened state. Experts advise waiting at least 30 minutes, or preferably one hour, before brushing your teeth after a meal.
For those with sensitive teeth, brushing after meals may actually worsen symptoms. Dr. Rajpal explained, "For patients with thin enamel or exposed tooth roots, brushing after meals can be irritating," and recommended adjusting the timing of brushing according to individual oral conditions.
Twice a Day as a Basic Rule... The Key Is 'How' You Brush
Experts emphasize that, in most cases, brushing twice a day-morning and evening-is sufficient. However, for those at high risk of cavities or gum disease, those wearing orthodontic devices, or those who frequently consume sugary and acidic foods and beverages, brushing at lunchtime can be beneficial.
Above all, the correct brushing technique is more important than the number of times you brush. Use dental floss first to clean between the teeth, and hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, brushing for at least two minutes. It is also effective to clean the surface of the tongue and to leave fluoride residue after brushing by rinsing gently rather than vigorously. Experts state, "If you can only brush once in the morning, brushing before breakfast is the best choice," but emphasize that, ultimately, 'how' you brush determines your dental health more than 'when' you brush.
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