Highlights
- Best time to brush your teeth as per Dr. Joseen Gastelum, a Phoenix-based dentist.
- Brushing before breakfast adds a protective coating to teeth and stimulates saliva production.
- If brushing after breakfast, wait 30 minutes to avoid damaging enamel due to acidic foods and drinks.
- Aim to brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bedtime to remove accumulated plaque.
- Use a soft toothbrush, gentle pressure, and change your toothbrush every 3-4 months for effective brushing.
- Flossing and tongue scraping are essential for overall oral health and reducing bad bacteria.
- Mouthwash can help with morning breath, but be cautious of alcohol-based mouthwashes drying the mouth.
- Good oral health is linked to overall health, making consistent dental habits crucial.
Discovering the best time to brush your teeth can make a significant impact on your oral health, and Dr. Joseen Gastelum, also known as @doctorjossen on TikTok, offers valuable insights. According to Dr. Gastelum, brushing before breakfast can help create a protective barrier on your teeth and stimulate saliva production, which counters morning breath and minimizes acid attacks after sleep.
However, if you prefer brushing after breakfast, waiting at least 30 minutes after eating is crucial. This interval allows your saliva to neutralize acids from food and drinks, protecting the enamel from damage. During this time, swishing with water or an alkaline mouth rinse can further aid in neutralizing acids.
Dr. Joseen Gastelum
Emphasizes the importance of brushing at least twice daily: once in the morning and again before going to bed. The latter is especially essential to remove plaque accumulated throughout the day. Midday brushing is acceptable, but waiting 30 minutes after meals is advised to avoid brushing acids into your teeth.
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To optimize your dental routine, Dr. Gastelum recommends using a soft or extra soft toothbrush, holding it at a 45-degree angle towards your gums, and brushing back and forth in short strokes. An electric toothbrush with gentle pressure can be particularly effective, with the brush doing the work for you.
In addition to brushing, flossing daily and using water flossers can enhance gum health. Tongue scraping is also beneficial for reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth. To counter morning breath, using mouthwash before brushing is recommended, but be cautious with alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can cause dryness.
Dr. Gastelum suggests finding a toothpaste flavor you enjoy, investing in an electric toothbrush with timers for precise brushing, and making brushing a social activity with friends, family, or roommates to build connections and establish a consistent habit.
Maintaining good oral health extends beyond aesthetics, with researchers linking it to overall well-being, including cardiovascular health, diabetes, dementia, and more. Prioritize your dental care, and follow these expert tips for a healthier smile and a healthier you.
