Dentists recommend tooth brushing twice daily using a good quality fluoride toothpaste. Most people know this advice but should you brush at a specific time and if so when?

It is generally agreed that brushing twice daily is adequate to prevent decay and maintain healthy gums. Brushing first thing in the morning and last thing at night is  the phrase most quoted but lets look at that more carefully.


Brush your teeth first thing in the morning

Although you may think you should brush your teeth after breakfast you would be wrong in doing so. Immediately after eating food the acid levels in the mouth rise meaning the protective coating of the tooth (enamel) is more likely to be damaged by brushing.

Brush before breakfast. The fluoride in the toothpaste will help to protect your teeth against breakfast acids.
Try not to eat or drink after brushing your teeth at night

Brush your teeth after your last meal of the day.  We recommed brushing 1 hour after eating as this gives your saliva a chance to buffer the acids and prevent abrasive wear on the enamel of your teeth.
Brushing after your meal also means that food is not left to stagnate over night producing a steady stream of tooth dissolving acids.