You’ve been hearing from your dentist and parents since you were a child that it’s important to brush your teeth every morning when you wake up. Even the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice each day for two full minutes. But is it necessary to do when you first rise? Discover why brushing teeth before breakfast will lend far greater results than if you opt to wait until afterward.
Why Brushing Your Teeth Before Breakfast is Better
Although it might not seem like a big deal whether you brush before or after breakfast, there is some truth when it comes to lobbying on the side of beforehand. Overnight, bacteria builds inside your mouth, which is why you may often wake up with what is known as “morning breath.”
By brushing your teeth first thing, you not only rid the mouth of bad oral bacteria, but you also coat your pearly whites with a protective layer of fluoride. This can strengthen your enamel while also preventing acids from eating away at the outermost layer. This is essential if you want to minimize your risk of food particles adhering to your teeth while eating breakfast.
Also, by completing your oral hygiene routine first thing each morning, you help to stimulate your salivary glands, making it easier to flush out bacteria and keep your smile safe and healthy.
What Can Happen If You Wait Until After Breakfast
If you forget to brush your teeth beforehand, make sure you keep these tips in mind to reduce the chances of cavity formation and gum disease. Instead of practicing your oral habits immediately following your meal, it’s best to wait at least 30-60 minutes or so. Why? Because many of the foods and beverages consumed can contain high levels of acidity, sugars, and carbohydrates. If you attempt to clean your teeth too soon after eating, you run the risk of spreading the harmful particles to other areas of your teeth.
Instead, it’s better to chew sugar-free gum and rinse with water immediately after eating.
The Best Way to Brush Your Teeth
If you are struggling to reach all the important areas of your smile while cleaning, there are a few key tips you can use to ensure your smile is clean and free of decay and gum disease. Some of these include:
- Place a small amount of toothpaste onto your brush. You do not need more than a pea-sized amount, as it will lather inside your mouth and allow you to pursue a thorough cleaning.
- Instead of moving the brush back and forth, go at them at an angle for two minutes.
- Use your toothbrush to clean your tongue, as many bacteria can accumulate over time.
- Do not swallow the toothpaste inside your mouth but instead, spit it out.
You may be eager to get up first thing in the morning and run downstairs for breakfast, but it’s better if you wait, take care of your teeth and gums, and then enjoy the smell of freshly cooked eggs, sausage, bacon, and toast. When sitting at the table, you’ll be glad your teeth are better protected.
About the Author
Dr. Mariliza LaCap has more than two decades of experience working in the oral healthcare field. She and her colleagues work hard to provide patients with beneficial tips to ensure a healthier smile. Whether it is about the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings or offering ways to encourage better brushing, you can freely contact us at (201) 453-4863 to learn more.