Hi again..sorry I havn't been asking questions these days as my sister (y912f) is always on :P

I wanted to know whether it is better to brush your teeth after eating or before. Because mostly everyone does it before but I don't see the point when they're going to get dirty again. Does it make a difference if you do it before or after?
Thanks -MC

The common belief is to brush after eating, but there seems to be some evidence that is not wise after eating acidic fruits. Check these sites.

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/dental-health/how-to-brush.html

http://www.emaxhealth.com/79/1063.html

http://www.fluoridefacts.org/brushingteeth.html

OK thank you...and sorry this is late!

-MC

Hi MC! I'm here to help answer your question. The timing of brushing your teeth can indeed make a difference in your oral health. Ideally, it's recommended to brush your teeth twice a day - once in the morning and once before bed.

Brushing your teeth before eating is a common practice because it helps remove plaque and bacteria that have built up overnight. By brushing before eating, you can start your day with a clean mouth and fresh breath. This also helps to remove any food particles that might get stuck in your teeth during your morning meal.

On the other hand, brushing your teeth after eating can be beneficial for a couple of reasons. First, brushing after a meal helps remove any food debris that may have become trapped between your teeth or along your gumline. This reduces the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

However, it's important to note that if you consumed anything acidic, like citrus fruits or soda, it's best to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Acidic foods and drinks can temporarily soften your tooth enamel, and brushing immediately after can cause erosions. Rinsing your mouth with water or chewing sugar-free gum after eating can help neutralize the acidity until it's safe to brush.

In summary, both brushing before and after eating have their benefits. Brushing before helps start the day with a clean mouth, while brushing after helps remove food particles and reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Ultimately, the most important thing is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing your teeth twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste, and also flossing daily.