Oral Health During Ramadan

The month of Ramadan, known for its abundance and blessings, brings richer and more diverse meals compared to other months. In particular, the consumption of sugar-containing foods, such as fruits and desserts, increases significantly during Ramadan.

For this reason, it is essential to pay extra attention to oral and dental health throughout this holy month.

After Iftar and Suhoor

As we know, those who observe fasting during Ramadan have two main meals: iftar (breaking the fast) and suhoor (pre-dawn meal). Consequently, oral hygiene should be maintained after both meals.

During iftar, the consumption of fruit, desserts, tea, coffee, and cigarettes tends to be high. This makes post-iftar dental care crucial.

After suhoor, before going to bed, it is important to brush the teeth and also use dental floss, clean the tongue, and rinse with mouthwash. This routine helps maintain oral hygiene, prevents bad breath during the day, and protects the oral environment against bacteria, ensuring a healthier start to fasting.

How to Maintain Oral Health During Ramadan?

• Do not skip suhoor; include walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and green tea in your meal. Also, do not forget to use cloves.
• Drink plenty of water between iftar and suhoor to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid consuming coffee, tea, and chocolate during suhoor as they have diuretic effects.
• Stay away from salty, spicy, and fried foods and consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables during iftar and suhoor.
• To protect teeth and gums, eat fresh fruits and vegetables without slicing them—biting into them directly helps clean teeth naturally.
• Avoid garlic and onions to prevent bad breath.
• Reduce or, if possible, quit smoking to maintain oral and overall health.
• If you wear dentures, clean and soak them in a cleansing solution overnight before going to bed.
• Include apples and white cheese in your meals, as they help prevent tooth decay.

I probably don’t need to remind you that maintaining proper oral hygiene during Ramadan should continue throughout Eid al-Fitr, when sugar and dessert consumption peaks.

By developing good oral care habits during Ramadan and continuing them during Eid, we can maintain a healthy routine in the long run.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy Ramadan, and an early Eid Mubarak!

Dt. Hikmet Harbalıoğlu
Oral and Dental Health Specialist