This is the best time to brush your teeth
A study found that advice on when is best to brush your teeth is inconsistent
![It can be confusing to know what the best practice for tooth brushing is](https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2014/10/21/21/web-teeth-brushing-RF-corbis.jpg)
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
![Louise Thomas](https://static.independent.co.uk/static-assets/support-us/louise-thomas.png)
Louise Thomas
Editor
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.
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."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments