Oral health during Ramadan

Ramadan can lead to changes in eating patterns, hydration, and sleep routines, which can affect your oral health. The good news is that with a few simple adjustments, you can maintain a healthy smile throughout the month of fasting. 

Here’s what we recommend. 

Why oral health can change during Ramadan 

When you fast, you go many hours without food or water. This reduces saliva production, which is your mouth’s natural defence system. Saliva helps: 

• Wash away food particles 

• Neutralise acids 

• Prevent bad breath 

• Protect against dental decay 

Less saliva means a higher risk of dry mouth, plaque buildup, and gum irritation. 

Our top dental tips for Ramadan 

These are our top tips for keeping on top of your dental health during Ramadan.

Brushing strategically 

It’s essential to brush at least twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. During Ramadan, you can brush: 

• After Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) 

• After Iftar (breaking the fast) 

• Before you go to bed 

Don’t forget your tongue; bacteria there are a major cause of bad breath. 

Brushing during fasting hours should not invalidate the fast if the toothpaste isn’t swallowed. 

Clean between your teeth every day 

Food tends to be richer and sometimes stickier during Ramadan. Flossing or cleaning between your teeth with interdental brushes after Iftar is essential for removing debris between teeth and reducing gum inflammation. 

If you only floss once a day, make it count during Ramadan. 

Be mindful of sugary & sticky foods 

Ramadan tables often include sweets and traditional desserts, and even dates, though nutritious, can stick to teeth. While enjoyable, they can increase cavity risk. 

When having sweet and sticky foods, we recommend: 

• Rinsing your mouth with water after eating 

• Waiting about one hour before brushing your teeth 

• Limiting constant snacking between Iftar and Suhoor 

Staying hydrated after Iftar 

Hydration is critical. Dry mouth significantly increases the risk of decay as well as bad breath. 

Between Iftar and Suhoor: 

• Drink plenty of water 

• Consider sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva 

Managing bad breath 

Many people worry about bad breath while fasting. It’s completely normal due to reduced saliva and metabolic changes. 

To minimise it: 

• Clean your tongue daily 

• Brush thoroughly at Suhoor 

• Use a non-alcoholic mouthwash after Iftar 

• Consider using sugar-free chewing gum to stimulate saliva after meals 

Having dental treatment during Ramadan 

Lots of people often postpone treatment unnecessarily. 

Routine dental care does not break the fast unless something is swallowed, so people prefer to spit all of the water out during routine cleanings.  

From a dental standpoint, delaying treatment can sometimes make problems worse. Do not ignore: 

• Bleeding gums 

• Tooth pain 

• Persistent bad breath 

• Swelling or sensitivity 

You can also talk to your dental team about making your appointments after Iftar if you are worried.  

With mindful brushing, smart food choices, and proper hydration, you can keep your smile healthy all month long.