Dr Michael Mosley has issued a warning about brushing your teeth in the morning. The health guru explained that many Britons could be doing it the wrong way and end up weakening their enamel, which is the hard glossy substance that covers the crown of your tooth.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the brains behind the Fast 800 eating plan shared that the timing of your morning dental hygiene was key. He said that people should brush their teeth before tucking into breakfast.
Worryingly, waiting to give them a go-over after your first meal could spell bad news for your smile unless you wait a fair amount of time. Dr Mosley said: “Does anyone brush their teeth BEFORE breakfast? That’s the advice from the American Dental Association. If you don’t do it before, [you] should wait at least 30 mins after in case acid from meal weakens enamel and brushing damages.”
His suggestion was backed by Location, Location, Location presenter Kirsty Allsopp who said: “Yes, I was taught this years ago.” Dr Mosley replied to her: “Doesn’t it make breakfast taste funny? I’m currently trying to wait 30 minutes after breakfast before brushing but that just feels unnatural; like waiting 30 minutes after going to the loo to wash your hands.”
In a previous interview with Express.co.uk, Dr Khaled Kasem, chief orthodontist at Impress, explained why brushing your teeth straight after you eat could pose problems down the line.
Dr Kasem said: “We’d always advise you to brush your teeth before you’ve eaten breakfast. This is because when you eat breakfast, the acid in the mouth weakens the tooth enamel, which can lead to cavities and other oral health problems.
“Additionally, if you brush too soon after eating, it can cause even further damage to your teeth, potentially requiring dental treatment, so whenever possible brush as soon as you wake up to strengthen enamel and set you up for the day.”
If you enjoy acidic foods or drinks like coffee or fruit for breakfast, The American Dental Association recommends waiting 60 minutes after eating before brushing, as it can harm the enamel of your teeth.
