This is the best time to brush your teeth

A study found that advice on when is best to brush your teeth is inconsistent 

Mollie Goodfellow
Wednesday 27 January 2016 12:48 EST
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It can be confusing to know what the best practice for tooth brushing is
It can be confusing to know what the best practice for tooth brushing is (Corbis)

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The standard advice from dentists has long been to brush our teeth twice a day, regularly floss and use mouthwash.

Its part of the morning and evening routine, and some people even brush their teeth after every meal. But when is the best time to brush your teeth?

According to a study undertaken by researchers at the University College London, due to the absence of good research, advice on the best way to brush teeth is confusing and inconsistent.

Some dentists recommend you wait a certain amount of time after eating certain foods or drinking certain drinks, such as fizzy drinks or wine, so as not to damage the tooth enamel.

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But Dr Richard Marques, one of the UK’s leading dentists, told the Independent what he recommends when it comes to brushing teeth.

“It is best to brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and evening," he said.

"You should wait at least 30 minutes after eating to brush the teeth, otherwise the acid can damage the tooth surface. Brushing before bed is really important, as otherwise the food can sit against the surface of the teeth and cause them to decay overnight."

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