Fasting comes with a wide range of health benefits for the body. It lowers blood pressure, detoxifies the liver, and also increases lifespan. Moreover, when you fast in Ramadan, the body goes into deprivation mode. As a result, the nutrients in the body make way to parts where they are needed the most. A good amount of minerals is deposited into teeth that prevent decay and strengthen them.

However, the long hours from Suhoor to Iftar call for some particular oral health measures. It often gets neglected as many people get too confused as to what is allowed or is not while we fast.

Bad Breath and Oral Health

To ensure proper oral health and hygiene, it is important to understand why we get bad breath. When we don’t drink or eat for a long time, it causes dehydration that leads to bacteria buildup in the mouth. The bacteria break down the food particle left in the mouth and release foul-smelling gases. The top, back, and underneath of your tongue, and the area between the teeth have a large buildup of these bacteria.

Saliva plays a key role in decreasing and helps with eliminating bacterial growth in the mouth. It acts as an antibacterial agent. When we fast, the flow of saliva is significantly reduced during this state of dehydration. The saliva production slows down that causes bad breath. This results in dry mouth and bacteria flourish in the mouth during these circumstances.

This is also the reason that we get morning breath after we wake up from sleep. It is essential to floss and brush your teeth daily before you sleep and after you wake up in the morning for hygiene and sound oral health.

Preventing Bad Breath & Maintaining Oral Health in Ramadan

After you do Iftar, the salivary glands get stimulated and saliva production becomes normal. And bad breath goes away as well. However, you still need to take some essential measures to prevent bad breath and ensure good oral health during the fasting period.

1. You Still Have to Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Although the timings will be changed, you should continue brushing your teeth twice a day. After Suhoor and after Iftar. It would be wise to use fluoridated toothpaste since it prevents cavity formation and makes teeth strong. You should also use a tongue cleaner to get rid of the white coating on the tongue as the bacteria makes its home on the top, back, and underneath the tongue. It is one of the main causes of bad breath.

If you had fish or milk in suhoor, then be thorough in cleaning your teeth as they contain certain bad breath causing proteins.

2. Floss and Rinse Mouth with Mouthwash

Flossing is extremely important. It gets rid of any food particles that might be stuck in between the teeth. Also, rinse your mouth with a good mouthwash to freshen up your breath. It is better to do it after Suhoor. Since some people have fear of swallowing it. It should be done outside fasting hours.

3. Use Miswak

A traditional yet effective method to keep your mouth and breath fresh is using miswak. You should use miswak sticks to clean your teeth. They also help in preventing plaque buildup.

4. Stay Hydrated

You must drink plenty of fluids in the hours when you are not fasting i.e. the hours after Iftar till Suhoor. Cut down the intake of tea, coffee, soda, and other caffeinated drinks. Drinking too much coffee can dehydrate you, particularly during Suhoor. Drink water, hibiscus, and peppermint tea for a fresh mouth. Also drinks juices and soups.

5. Probiotics

Probiotics can be used to treat bad breath. They increase the good bacteria in the gut and help with intestinal health as well. The healthy bacteria on our gut reduces when we eat refined or processed foods. So, the body must be nourished with good bacteria. Some examples of probiotics are kefir, live-cultured yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

6. Avoid Sticky Foods

Sticky foods are extremely damaging to the oral health and need to be avoided especially in Ramadan. Food items with sugar and starch lead to tooth decay and dissolve the enamel. See that you avoid sticky foods such as cheese, chocolates, and some cereals. They can get stuck between the teeth and need to be brushed carefully. 

7. Keep Your Dentures Clean

You have to maintain your oral health regardless you have natural teeth or dentures. If you use dentures, then make sure you clean them properly using an antiseptic solution. Unclean dentures can cause bad breath and decay.

8. Diabetic Patients Should Rinse Their Mouth Twice a Day

Diabetic patients are more at risk of suffering from gum disease. To ensure complete oral health, they must rinse their mouths twice a day with chlorhexidine mouthwash. This practice helps to prevent the onset of a gum disease. It is wise to visit your dentist before Ramadan to get both teeth and gum checked so that their oral health does not get affected during fasting.

9. Organic Coconut Oil Pulling

This is one of the most effective methods to remove bacteria from the mouth that causes bad breath. Also, it helps with teeth whitening. Once you have finished your Suhoor meal, take one teaspoon of organic coconut oil and then gently swish it in your mouth for 10-15 minutes. After that, spit it out and brush your teeth. Ensuring good oral health is necessary for your physical health as well. Ramadan should not be an excuse to neglect your oral health. Do visit your dentist regularly to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Make sure the dentist you are seeing is experienced and professional. For the best services, you can book an appointment at Same Day Dental Implants. We have a team of experienced

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