A dentist has sparked a wide debate about the best time to brush teeth, warning that the wrong method could cause permanent damage to tooth enamel.
Dr. Deepa Chopra explains that brushing teeth before breakfast is the healthiest option, contrary to what many believe who prefer to brush them after eating.
She said: "Brushing your teeth before breakfast helps remove plaque and bacteria that accumulate overnight, and it also forms a protective layer of fluoride on the teeth before exposure to food."
This view contradicts what is common among social media users, who believe that brushing teeth after breakfast makes more sense.
One TikTok user said: "I eat breakfast and then brush my teeth, that makes more sense."
In contrast, another person sarcastically remarked: "What's the point of brushing your teeth before breakfast? Your breath will smell like milk and cereal all day."
The doctor points out that many breakfast foods, such as juices and jams, contain acids that can weaken tooth enamel.
She adds: “Brushing teeth immediately after breakfast may be harmful, especially after eating acidic foods such as fruit or juices, because these foods temporarily soften the enamel layer, and cleaning at this stage may increase its erosion.”
She emphasizes that brushing before breakfast reduces the effect of acids and sugars, saying: "When you brush your teeth before breakfast, you give them an extra layer of protection that reduces potential damage."
If you prefer to brush your teeth after breakfast, Chopra recommends waiting at least 30 minutes.
She explains: "Enamel needs time to recover after exposure to acids, and direct cleaning may lead to sensitivity and gradual erosion of teeth."
She adds: "Waiting 30 minutes helps to rebalance the acids in the mouth through saliva, allowing the enamel to harden again."
