The dental community has varying opinions on when it’s best to brush your teeth, but Dr. Jossen Gastelum, a Phoenix-based dentist known as @doctorjossen on TikTok, advocates brushing before breakfast.
“In my opinion, brushing before breakfast adds a protective coating to your teeth and helps stimulate saliva production before eating,” Gastelum told Fortune. He explains that saliva plays a crucial role in buffering acids in the mouth, which are higher after sleep due to reduced salivary flow. This makes teeth more vulnerable to acid attacks upon waking, while also dealing with the dreaded morning breath.
For those who prefer brushing after breakfast, Gastelum recommends waiting at least 30 minutes. This waiting period is vital, especially after consuming acidic foods or beverages like coffee, as immediate brushing can damage enamel. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises waiting up to an hour after eating to brush, allowing time for saliva to neutralize acids.
“Your saliva takes about 30 minutes to buffer out acids to safe levels,” Gastelum adds. In the meantime, he suggests swishing with water or an alkaline mouth rinse like TheraBreath to aid in neutralizing mouth acidity.
For best oral hygiene, Gastelum stresses the importance of brushing at least twice daily: once in the morning and once before bed. “Both times are crucial, but nighttime brushing is especially important to remove plaque accumulated throughout the day,” he says. Gastelum offers a memorable line to motivate good habits: “You brush your teeth at night to keep your teeth, and in the morning to keep your friends.”
If you wish to brush after lunch, Gastelum recommends waiting another 30 minutes to avoid brushing harmful acids into your teeth. However, he warns against over-brushing. “More brushing doesn’t necessarily mean better oral health,” he explains. “Mechanical disruption of plaque is key, but brushing well twice a day is sufficient.”
Most dentists, including Gastelum, recommend using a soft or extra-soft toothbrush. Adults should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums, using gentle, short strokes to cover each tooth. Overly aggressive brushing can lead to gum recession and enamel wear. For electric toothbrush users, Gastelum advises letting the brush do the work, using light pressure at the proper angle.
Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months or immediately after illness, as worn bristles lose effectiveness. Good oral health, according to recent research, is linked to overall health, with gum disease connected to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and even erectile dysfunction.
Flossing at least once daily is also critical for gum health, particularly for preventing cavities between teeth. “Water flossers, like Waterpik, are great for improving gum health, especially for those with limited dexterity,” Gastelum notes. He also encourages tongue scraping as a simple but often overlooked practice for reducing bad bacteria.
For those who struggle to maintain a consistent brushing routine, Gastelum offers tips to make it easier. “Find a toothpaste flavor you enjoy, invest in an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer, and brush alongside a friend or family member to build consistency,” he suggests. This habit-building approach can make oral care both social and sustainable.
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