Doctor warns you could be brushing your teeth at the wrong time

A doctor has disclosed the precise time you should brush your teeth in the morning. Doing so at the incorrect time risks "wearing down" your enamel and gums. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential. Neglecting it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. While many of us know the fundamental rule of brushing twice daily, you might not be aware of certain other crucial guidelines. In a video shared on social media platform TikTok, Doctor Suraj Kukadia provided further insight. Dr Kukadia, who goes by Dr Sooj online, said: "Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? Well, this is a highly debated topic, but the answer is you should brush your teeth before breakfast." He elaborated on the reasoning behind this. "And this is because the toothpaste fluoride gives your teeth a bit of protection to the acid in the food and drink that you're about to have at breakfast," he said. "Orange juice is a particular culprit. If you brush your teeth after breakfast, you're just rubbing all of that acid into your teeth, which will wear down your enamel and your gums." He continued: "You should also brush your teeth just before bed. So twice a day before breakfast and just before bed." His guidance is supported by dentist Dr Deepa Chopra from Whites Dental . Speaking previously to Surrey Live , she said: "A good rule of thumb is to brush your teeth before breakfast and rinse your mouth with water afterwards. "Brushing before breakfast helps remove overnight bacteria and plaque that have built up. Rinsing with water after your meal can help wash away food particles and acids without damaging the enamel." She explicitly warned against brushing immediately after eating, as this can erode your enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. Dr Deepa continued: "Brushing your teeth immediately after eating might seem logical for fresh breath, but it can damage your enamel. Your enamel softens temporarily when you eat, especially foods high in acids. "Brushing during this vulnerable period can wear away the softened enamel, which leads to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of discolouration." Instead, she suggested waiting "about 30 minutes after eating" before brushing, allowing your saliva to naturally counteract the acids present in your mouth. To maintain healthy teeth, the NHS recommends you: Brush your teeth twice a day Clean between your teeth Cut down on sugar Quit smoking Limit your alcohol intake Have regular dental check-ups If you have any concerns about your teeth, you should consult your dentist.