Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
Dr Mark Porter settles a family debate of when we should brush our teeth in the mornings.
Getty
Dr Mark Porter settles a family debate of when we should brush our teeth in the mornings.
Can you please help settle a family argument: should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
There are arguments for doing both but the consensus is to brush before breakfast so that you reduce the amount of oral bacteria prior to consuming food such as bread and marmalade, and sugary drinks like orange juice or sweetened tea/coffee, which the bugs break down into tooth-damaging acids.
The downside is that you then risk leaving particles of food in between your teeth that might stay there for hours giving the bacteria time to recover, and more fuel when they do.
The belt-and-braces approach would be to brush before and after, but best to wait 30 minutes afterwards, as some foods and drinks can temporarily soften the enamel on your teeth.
Have you got a medical question for Dr Mark Porter? He can’t reply individually, but will respond to questions on this page*
Email drmark@saga.co.uk.
*Always talk to your own GP
Some Saga holidays include soothing or spiritual activities like joining a traditional tea ceremony in Japan, practising yoga in India or bathing in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
Health insurance for people over 50 that provides a quicker route to diagnosis and planned medical treatment in a private facility.
Underwritten by Bupa Insurance Limited.
Are you retiring at the wrong age? The best age to retire for your body, brain, happiness and pocket.
Everything you need to know about the lung infection, and how you could be ill with “walking” pneumonia without realising it.
Strong calves for a strong mind: how they support our circulation and brain health, with easy moves to strengthen yours at home.
Our GP Dr Mark Porter explains what can cause itchy skin, which is a common problem as we get older.
Worried you’ve morphed into Victor Meldrew? Find out how to battle that bad mood, and what to do if you’re stuck with a grouchy loved one.
The benefits of heat and cold therapy, and how Nordic bathing won over our nervous writer.
Here’s how to spot the symptoms of heat disease and reduce your danger.
The NHS winter vaccination campaign kicks off next week. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to book.
Pilates for back pain – what to do if you are suffering, and five gentle exercises that could help.
Dizziness or vertigo: a sensation of spinning, can stop us doing everyday things for fear of falling. Try these tips to stop feeling dizzy
You don’t have to put up with bladder leaks. We try out the latest pelvic floor gadgets for men and women.
Cataracts are a normal part of ageing. Learn how to spot the signs – and when it’s time to consider surgery.
