Am I allowed to brush my teeth while fasting during Ramadan?

Brush your teeth while you fast during Ramadan, but be careful that you don't swallow anything. You can use any fluoride toothpaste, but make sure you don't gulp it down.

It is important that dental hygiene is paid heed to as one follows a strict regime during the holy month of Ramadan.

Below are some of the tips and advices that should be put into use by a person observing a fast.

1. How many times should one brush one's teeth during Ramadan?

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, you help remove food and plaque - a sticky white film that forms on your teeth and contains bacteria. After you eat a meal or snack that contains sugar, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated attacks can break down tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Plaque that isn't removed can also harden into tartar, making it harder to keep teeth clean.

2. Should people undergo any dental procedures once Ramadan comes to an end?
Regular dental check-ups are recommended every 6 months regardless of the season.

3. Is there any special dental advice for the children observing a fast during Ramadan?
Advice for fasting children is to give enough time for tooth-brushing procedures with medium brush's texture.

4. What kind of a toothpaste should be used during Ramadan?
It is permissible for a fasting person to use any fluoride toothpaste while fasting, for as long as he is careful not to swallow anything.

5. Are there any food items that cause dental problems during Ramadan?
There is overwhelming evidence that frequent consumption of sugars is associated with dental caries (tooth decay). Dietary advice should be aimed at limiting the frequency of sugar/carbohydrates intake.

6. Are there any particular dental tools that people should use during Ramadan?
There is no dental tool in particular, but one should not forget to keep one's oral hygiene in good condition even during fasting.


(All information has been provided by Dr. Tamer Mohsin Abusalah, General Practitioner - Dental & Medical Director of Burjeel Dental Clinic)