Did you brush twice today?

Dentists have been known to tell their patients to brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes, and for good reason. Good brushing habits keep your teeth healthy, maintain the health of your gums, and keep your teeth strong and cavity-free.

Seldom, a question does arise, as to when teeth should be brushed. In a review done by Attin T and Hornecker E, it was found that most studies indicated brushing before breakfast and after dinner, as best suited times for brushing. Although, there have been claims stating brushing after food intake helps remove food debris on teeth, studies have proven otherwise.

A simple elaboration should be self-explanatory. For anything to be digested and utilized optimally by the human body, acid acts on it to aid the digestion process. This process begins in the mouth. The bad smell and salty taste in your mouth, early in the morning, is due to the acids released by bacteria trying to dissolve your teeth. Studies by Jaeggi and Lussi have confirmed, intake of food also causes acid release in the mouth which, not only aids in digestion but also softens the enamel on the teeth. The loosened enamel is easier to remove/lose when in contact with a toothbrush. Another study supporting Jaeggi and Lussi’s study confirmed, it takes at least 40 minutes after food intake, for the enamel to harden.

Along with when to brush your teeth, it is important to know how. As depicted in the image above

1. Take a “pea-sized” amount of tooth paste on the toothbrush.
2. Make sure all surfaces of your teeth have been touched by the brush in an “Up and Down, Round and Round” motion.
3. Remember to brush not only the front teeth but also the back teeth beside your cheek and the insides of your teeth too, as shown.
4. Remember not to apply too much pressure.
5. Spit out leftover toothpaste and rinse thoroughly with water.
6. Remember to clean your tongue too.

For further information and consultation:

Dr. Sharat Megh

MDS (Pediatric Dentistry)

Consultant at

1. Bhagirathi Neotia Woman and Child Care Centre, Rawdon Street Branch, Kolkata
2. My Family Clinic, Kalikapur, Kolkata