How to Care for Your Dental Health during Ramadan

Muslims have to deal with the fasting process during Ramadan. This occasion allows people to learn self-restraint from temptations of everyday pleasures and develop self-discipline and self-control. They are not allowed to drink, eat, and do other things. For this reason, it is difficult to maintain one’s dental health during Ramadan.

The process of fasting develops dehydration. Thus, bad breath is one of the most common oral health issues faced by Muslim people during this time. In this article, we’ll give you tips on how to care for your dental health during Ramadan.

Brush your teeth after suhoor.

Most dentists will recommend their patients to brush their teeth after suhoor. Brushing your teeth after suhoor, also known as the predawn meal, is very important to prevent tooth decay due to stuck food particles in between your teeth. Dentists believe that particles are the main cause of bad breath. Thus, it is important to keep your teeth clean.

Rinse your mouth with water.

Rinsing your mouth with water or using mouthwash is allowed as long as you will not swallow anything. It is recommended by a dentist as a part of your oral hygiene. However, some are skeptical about the idea as they are afraid that they might swallow something. If this is the case, do this outside fasting hours so you won’t break the fast.

Use dental floss.

Many dentists strongly recommend using a dental floss to eliminate the white residue on your tongue as this is often the reason for bad breath. Flossing will remove bacteria and plaque between your teeth and under the gum line. If you are afraid of the risks of brushing your teeth, flossing is the perfect way to protect your teeth and gums from cavities and gum diseases caused by plaque.

Use miswak.

According to General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the use of miswak is permissible to clean teeth. Miswak is a twig from arak tree used for cleaning teeth. It helps stimulate saliva that will prevent dryness on your throat and eliminates bad breath in your mouth.

Conclusion

Bear in mind that your dental health should be your top priority. If you feel ill, it is permissible to break the fast. When a dental problem happens during Ramadan, contact your dentist and schedule an appointment.