Most people know that they need to brush their teeth in the morning for two full minutes, but they may not know whether it’s best to handle this hygiene task before or after they eat breakfast.  Dentists recommend one over the other for the best long-term health of your teeth. Understand why this timing is important and how you should approach your morning brushing. 

What is the Ideal Time to Brush Your Teeth?

Why It Matters

Dentists say that the ideal time to brush your teeth is as soon as you wake up. Most breakfast foods are highly acidic, such as jam, citrus fruits, coffee, and orange juice. The low pH in these acidic foods and beverages weakens the hard protective enamel layer on your teeth over time. This can cause discoloration and decay over time, as the enamel thins and exposes the weaker center of the tooth. 

When you brush teeth covered in these acids, the brush forces the acids into the enamel’s small pores. This causes the acid to work quickly and wear down your enamel faster. 

How to Brush in the Morning

Brush your teeth immediately in the morning. After you eat breakfast, thoroughly rinse your mouth with fresh water or a mouthwash. This will flush most of the acids from your teeth so they can’t soften your enamel. It will also freshen your breath by removing any extra bits of food from your tongue, gums, and teeth. 

If you are unable to brush before you eat your breakfast, you can do so afterward. Wait at least 30 minutes. This gives your saliva time to break down the acids left over from your meal. When you brush, there won’t be high quantities of acid to be forced into your enamel as you brush. 

Dr. Khalifeh at Philmont Family Dentistry will answer all of your questions about home dental care and provide professional care to keep your teeth healthy for life. This dentist has been serving the Columbia County, NY, community since 1975 and offers a full array of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services. Learn more on their website, and call (518) 672-4077 to schedule an appointment.