Published: Nov. 16, 2021, 8 a.m.
One of the first rituals a child is taught is to brush their teeth after breakfast. And up until 10 years ago, Dr. B was giving this same advice to patients. However, with the discovery of the oral microbiome, science is no longer pointing to this as best practice. Today Dr. B addresses the question “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?” Tune in to hear how eating causes an acid wash within our mouths, and how brushing during this results in enamel demineralization. Find out the role of the oral microbiome in the production of acid following eating, and why disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work (and can even be harmful). Dr. B uses a simple analogy to describe the mechanical benefits of brushing and flossing in disrupting the biofilm and explains the pros and cons of the timing of your morning brushing. Listen in to find out why you should be changing your brushing habits!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Why Dr. B’s answer to today’s question differs from his answer 15 years ago
- Today’s question: “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?”
- How eating causes acid exposure in the mouth
- The mechanism underlying tooth decay by acid wash
- How our understanding of this process has changed due to the discovery of the oral microbiome
- Why disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work, and is bad for you
- Keeping the oral microbiome commensal: brushing and flossing at the right time
- How the oral microbiome protects your teeth
- Weeding the garden: an analogy for disrupting the biofilm
- How the biofilm is affected by sleep
- Why brushing right after eating can cause enamel damage by acid exposure and demineralization
- The two best times to brush your teeth in the morning: before eating or 30 minutes after
- How the mechanical action of brushing and flossing helps the oral microbiome
- Why brushing right after an unhealthy meal doesn’t undo the damage
- Why you need to brush your teeth even if you don’t eat in the morning
- The role of functional dentistry in changing the status quo and staying up to date with science
How to Submit Your Question:
Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Ask the Dentist
About Dr. Mark Burhenne
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Follow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentist
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Functional Dentist Directory
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