Brushing before or after breakfast? American mum shocked to discover Indians' way of brushing

Kristen Fischer, an American mum of four living in India, recently had a mind-blowing discovery: Indians brush their teeth differently than Americans. In a video, she shared that while she grew up brushing after breakfast, most Indians brush before eating. A quick poll revealed that 89.6% of Indians clean their teeth before breakfast, while 53.2% of non-Indians brush afterwards. Curious about the reasons, she asked the internet—and the responses were both cultural and fascinating.

Internet users shared their own brushing routines from around the world. Many Americans said they were advised by dentists to brush before eating to remove plaque. People from Russia mentioned that they brush first thing in the morning to avoid swallowing bacteria that accumulate overnight. Others noted that brushing right after waking up helps freshen the mouth before starting daily chores, highlighting that morning brushing is a common practice in many cultures. Another user pointed out that in ancient India, morning routines followed Ayurvedic principles: people brushed with herbal twigs before eating to remove overnight toxins, support digestion, and maintain oral and overall health—a practice that persists today with modern toothbrushes and toothpaste.


What does science say?
According to Healthline, there’s a scientific reason for brushing first thing in the morning. Overnight, plaque-causing bacteria multiply, causing “morning breath” and a mossy taste. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste removes these bacteria, coats enamel with a protective barrier, and stimulates saliva, which helps break down food and naturally fights harmful bacteria. A small study of 21 older adults showed brushing boosted saliva production for up to five minutes, aiding digestion if eating afterwards.


If you prefer brushing after breakfast, the American Dental Association recommends waiting 30–60 minutes, especially after acidic foods like orange juice, citrus, bread, or pastries. Brushing immediately after can weaken enamel. Drinking water or chewing sugar-free gum can help protect teeth in the meantime.