During Ramadan fasting, certain changes in oral health can occur due to alterations in eating and drinking habits. Here’s what happens and how to take care of oral health while fasting:
Dry Mouth: Fasting can lead to decreased saliva production, causing dry mouth. This can increase the risk of dental issues such as cavities and bad breath. To combat dry mouth, drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours and use sugar-free gum or mints to stimulate saliva production.
Increased Plaque Build-Up: With limited food consumption and altered meal timings, there may be an increase in plaque accumulation on teeth.
Bad Breath: This is extremely common when the body is not receiving any fuel, as the body is put into a state of ketosis releasing ketones. These are chemicals which break down fat for energy. When they mix with plaque bacteria in the oral cavity they produce a bad odour – bad breath. Brushing your teeth after Suhoor and Iftar, using a tongue scraper as well as flossing daily, can help prevent plaque build-up and maintain oral hygiene.
Tooth Sensitivity: Some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity during fasting due to changes in dietary habits and dehydration. Avoid consuming excessively hot or cold foods and drinks, and use a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth if needed. Traditionally, dates are eaten to open fasts, which may trigger sensitivity in some patients due to the sticky consistency; it’s advisable to brush the teeth after having them.
Gum Disease: Poor oral hygiene during fasting, combined with increased consumption of sugary foods and drinks during non-fasting hours, can contribute to gum disease. To prevent gum disease, brush and floss regularly, limit sugary snacks and beverages.
Tooth Decay: Consuming sugary foods and drinks during non-fasting hours without proper oral hygiene can increase the risk of tooth decay. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, and brush your teeth thoroughly to remove food particles and plaque.
Some oral care tips during Ramadan
Brushing: Brush your teeth after Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and before bedtime. Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes.
Flossing: Clean between your teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes to remove food particles and plaque.
Mouthwash: Use a mouthwash or rinse with water after evening meals.
Tongue cleaner: Use a tongue scraper to cleanse the tongue and reduce bad breath.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours to prevent dry mouth, which can increase the risk of dental issues. Avoid salty foods and caffeinated drinks, which are dehydrating.
Diet: Avoid consuming too many sugary foods and drinks, especially during Iftar, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Plan well-balanced meals at iftar and suhoor that include protein, fruit and vegetables to maintain good general health. Chew sugar-free gum after your evening meal to help with saliva stimulation.
Use Miswak: Consider using a miswak (chewing stick) for oral hygiene during fasting hours, as it helps clean teeth and freshen breath. It is reputed to have anti-bacterial properties and prevents bad breath during fasting hours.
Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, try to reduce or quit during Ramadan, as smoking can stain teeth and contribute to gum disease.
(Author is MDS, Safe Hands, Dental Health & Awareness Center, Srinagar)
