Ramadan is a month of abundance and blessings, and our tables are often more plentiful than usual. In particular, the consumption of sugary foods such as fruits and sweets increases during this time. Therefore, extra attention to oral and dental health during Ramadan can be very beneficial.
Oral Care After Iftar and Suhoor
During Ramadan, those who fast only have two main meals: iftar and suhoor. Therefore, we should clean our teeth after both iftar and suhoor. At the iftar table, the consumption of fruits, sweets, and afterwards tea, coffee, and smoking often increases. For this reason, it is important to take care of dental hygiene after iftar.
After suhoor, it is essential to brush our teeth before going to bed, and we should also use dental floss, clean our tongue, and use mouthwash. These practices are crucial for oral hygiene. Additionally, by doing this, we can prevent bad breath during the day and protect our mouth from bacteria by starting our fast with a clean oral flora.
How to Care for Your Oral Health During Ramadan
• Don’t Skip Suhoor: It is important not to skip suhoor. During suhoor, we should consume walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and green tea. Clove should also be included.
• Drink Plenty of Water: To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water between iftar and suhoor.
• Avoid Diuretic Foods and Drinks: Avoid foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and chocolate at suhoor as they have diuretic (urine-producing) properties.
• Avoid Salty, Spicy, and Fried Foods: Instead, consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables at both iftar and suhoor.
• Protect Your Teeth: To protect your teeth and gums, eat fresh vegetables and fruits without slicing them.
• Avoid Strong-Smelling Foods: Avoid foods such as garlic and onions, as they can affect oral health negatively.
• Reduce Smoking: Smoking harms oral health, so it is important to reduce smoking during Ramadan or, if possible, quit completely.
• Care for Dentures: If you wear dentures, make sure to soak them in a cleaning solution overnight.
• Eat Apples and White Cheese: Apples and white cheese help prevent tooth decay, so they should be included in the diet.
It’s important to maintain the oral care habits we develop during Ramadan through to Eid al-Fitr, as sugar and sweets consumption is at its peak. Remember, the oral care habits we adopt during Ramadan will continue to benefit us in the long run.
Wishing you all a healthy and peaceful Ramadan and a joyful Eid in advance!
Dt. Hikmet Harbalıoğlu
Oral and Dental Health Specialist
