Brushing your teeth regularly is important, but brushing in the right way is equally important. Many people handle the whole process of brushing their teeth in their own way and are in a habit of brushing their teeth before going to bed.

That is a good thing, but it may not be a great idea to avoid brushing your teeth before breakfast, thinking you do not need it since you have brushed your teeth once already before bedtime. Moreover, there are situations when brushing your teeth right after eating a meal can cause more harm than good.

Should You Brush Teeth Before or After Breakfast?

Before breakfast is better.

If you think it is best to brush your teeth after breakfast to help get rid of remnants of food, you are certainly not alone. It definitely makes sense, but the truth is that it is better to avoid brushing your teeth after breakfast. Here is why dentists recommend brushing your teeth before you have your breakfast.

• You Get Plaque When Resting

What it means is that plaque continues to form throughout the night even if you have brushed your teeth before bedtime. Plaque is basically bacteria that stick to the surface of your teeth. These bacteria eat food and release acids that can weaken the enamel. You can remove this plaque buildup when you brush before breakfast. Moreover, this helps provide your teeth with a protective layer of fluoride that limit the bad effects of sugars and acids you consume at breakfast time.

• Brushing After Breakfast May Damage Tooth Enamel

You should brush your teeth before breakfast, especially if you are going to have sugar cereals, orange juice, maple syrup, or something acidic and sugary. However, you should avoid brushing immediately after breakfast because scraping can remove that softened enamel and let the acid go deeper into your teeth. Therefore, you will be better off brushing your teeth before breakfast.

What to Do After Breakfast

Should you brush teeth before or after breakfast? You ask. It is better to brush before breakfast, but you will still have to do something to eliminate any food particles left in your mouth. The solution is simple – just rinse out your mouth thoroughly after breakfast. You can use a non-alcoholic mouthwash or simply use water.

What If I Still Prefer Brushing after Breakfast?

There certainly are reasons why it makes sense to brush your teeth before breakfast, but some people are in a habit of brushing right after breakfast. Well, if you really want to brush your teeth after breakfast, wait at least half an hour after your meal to brush your teeth. You should wait this long to give your saliva enough time to lower the pH levels in your mouth. This way, you are less likely to damage your enamel when brushing after breakfast.

Things You Should Know About Teeth Brushing

There is no doubt about the fact that brushing your teeth regularly is important to promote better oral health. And in addition to wondering "Should you brush teeth before or after breakfast?" you should also know how to maximize the benefits of brushing your teeth. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

1. Always Select the Right Brush

You cannot handle the task well if you do not have the right tool. To get the best toothbrush, opt for a toothbrush that can easily reach the places that need cleaning. Do not select a brush with a large head, especially if your mouth is small. Moreover, you should select a toothbrush with soft bristles. The bristles should be soft enough to bend completely to reach under your gums. Hard bristles can damage tooth structure.

2. Take Your Time When Brushing

It is never a good idea to rush when brushing. Ensure that you take at least 2 minutes to brush your teeth. It is okay to cut that brushing short occasionally, but do not make it a habit. You need to get rid of those food particles that may be stuck behind your teeth.

3. Do Not Overdo It

Whether you brush teeth before or after breakfast, spending too much time brushing is not a good idea either. Two minutes are usually enough to clean your mouth properly. Moreover, you should avoid brushing your teeth very hard. You are only going to damage your teeth by scrubbing too hard. There is no need to overdo it, especially considering the fact that plaque is loose and soft and responds well to soft, gentle strokes. Take it as if you are massaging your teeth and not 'scrubbing' them.

4. Switch Things Up

You should consider switching things up a bit and avoid brushing in the same way always. The most important thing is to start from a different place. This helps ensure that every area of your mouth gets equal attention. Also, ensure that you maintain an angle of 45 degrees when using your brush against the gum line. Do not forget the tongue-side when brushing.

5. Deal with Your Sour Tooth

Just like too much of sugar, consuming too much of diet sodas, energy drinks, and sour candies can affect the overall health of your teeth. Many seemingly healthy things like orange juice, apple juice, and coffee also contain acid and can damage tooth enamel. Limit your intake of this stuff and never brush your teeth immediately after consuming anything sour or acidic.