Orthodontic expert warns: 'If you eat breakfast before brushing your teeth, you're feeding the bacteria more than you're feeding yourself.'

Maintaining good oral health depends not only on how often you brush, but also on when you do it. Verónica Vázquez Guajardo , a Mexican doctor specializing in orthodontics, explained on her Instagram account why your morning routine should begin with brushing your teeth before eating.

According to the specialist, saliva production decreases during sleep, which encourages the buildup of bacteria . When you eat breakfast without brushing your teeth first, these microorganisms come into contact with your food, which can have negative effects on your teeth. In her words: "If you eat breakfast without brushing your teeth first, you're feeding the bacteria more than you are feeding yourself."

Vázquez Guajardo explained that this combination of bacteria and food can trigger problems like cavities . "Bacteria plus breakfast equals an acid party for your teeth," she stated, noting that the acids produced directly affect tooth enamel. Brushing before breakfast helps reduce this bacterial load and prevent future complications.

The dentist summarized her recommendation with a clear phrase: "Wake up your teeth before your stomach, they'll thank you," reinforcing the idea that the first step of the day should be oral hygiene.

The expert also clarified that it's possible to brush your teeth after breakfast, as long as you wait a reasonable amount of time . "If you want to brush after breakfast, wait at least 30 minutes to neutralize your mouth's pH and thus protect your enamel." Brushing immediately after eating, especially acidic foods, can cause enamel erosion instead of protecting it.

Thus, the professional recommendation establishes two guidelines:

*This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by the journalist and an editor.