We’re often told that breakfast is the ‘most important meal of the day‘ – giving us the fuel to take on anything in the next 24 hours. But now, one dentist suggests we might be going about it all wrong.
Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum, has claimed that some classic breakfast staples actually work to degrade your teeth – especially if you’re (rightly) brushing your teeth before eating. He said: “Right after brushing, your enamel is more vulnerable, and what you eat or drink can either protect or harm your teeth.
“By giving your enamel time to recover [from morning brushing] and choosing the right foods, you can maintain a healthy mouth while still enjoying a nutritious breakfast.”
First up, Dr Bozic tackled orange juice. While this tangy drink is typically packed with micronutrients like vitamin C that are known to boost gum health overall, the expert suggests that drinking this too soon can erode your enamel.
If this occurs, a lower layer of dentine may be exposed, giving your teeth an undesirable yellowish tint. “Brushing removes protective layers, making your enamel more vulnerable to acid,” Dr Bozic said.
“Drinking orange juice at this time increases the risk of damage. It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes or opt for water.” Meanwhile, fans of white bread toast and sweet-tasting cereals will also be disappointed by the surgeon’s claims.
Typically, both of these products hold a large volume of sugar which ‘sticks to your teeth’, feeding harmful bacteria, according to Dr Bozic. He added: “Starches can linger and lead to plaque buildup if eaten right after brushing. Whole-grain bread is a better choice, and it’s wise to rinse with water afterwards.
“Sugary [cereals] can quickly undo the benefits of brushing [too]. Opt for fibre-rich, low-sugar cereals like oatmeal instead.”
Last but not least, Dr Bozic drew to a few types of fruit. Much like orange juice, zesty citrus fruits like lemons, limes and grapefruits are also highly acidic and hold the potential to weaken the enamel.
Instead, he recommends opting for bananas and apples, or even a number of unexpected ‘tooth-friendly’ items. He said: “Eggs, plain yoghurt, whole grain toast, and low-acid fruits like bananas provide nutrients without risking enamel erosion.”