Pakistan Dental Guide 3 min read
Dental Care in Ramadan: Bad Breath, Brushing While Fasting and Treatment Timing
Fasting can make bad breath worse. Here is what helps during Ramadan, how to keep brushing, and how to plan dental visits around the fast.
This guide relates to our scaling & polishing treatment.
Why does bad breath get worse while fasting?
The NHS lists fasting or crash dieting among the causes of bad breath, alongside gum problems, cavities, dry mouth and smoking. During a fast, saliva flow is lower for many people, and that makes the mouth drier and the breath stronger.
Good cleaning is the best protection. Our scaling and polishing visit removes the tartar that holds bacteria, and that helps the breath as well as the gums.
How should you brush while fasting?
Brush gently for two minutes, at least twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste. Brush before the fast begins, and again before the evening meal, if that suits you. Clean your tongue once a day, and clean between your teeth every day with interdental brushes or floss.
Whether brushing affects your fast is a religious question, so please ask a scholar you trust. Whatever the answer, rinse well and spit out the water after cleaning.
| Time | What to do |
|---|---|
| Before the fast (suhoor) | Brush gently with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between the teeth |
| During the day | Rinse with water if needed, and avoid strong sugary drinks |
| After iftar | Brush again, and clean the tongue |
| Before bed | Brush and clean between the teeth, then avoid food |
What helps with dry mouth and bad breath?
Sugar-free mints or gum can help when the mouth feels dry, and sipping water between meals helps too. Avoid smoking, heavy drinking, and sugary food and drink, which make bad breath worse. Brushing too hard can also irritate the gums.
If bad breath lasts a few weeks despite good cleaning, book a dentist visit. Persistent bad breath can come from gum disease, decay or a problem that a dentist can find.
Can you plan dental treatment around Ramadan?
Routine treatment can be planned for the evening, after iftar, when many people prefer to attend. Tell us when you book if you are fasting, so we can plan the visit around your day.
Dental emergencies do not wait for the fast to end. If you have severe pain or swelling, contact us straight away, and we will advise on the fastest option.
When to see a dentist in Multan
Book a visit if pain, swelling, or bleeding gums appear during the month. We are open Sunday to Thursday and on Saturday, from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, and we are closed on Fridays. Message us on WhatsApp about a Ramadan appointment and we will plan the time with you.
Simple habits that help during the month
Keep to the same brushing times each day, so the routine is easy to remember. Choose a glass of water rather than sugary drinks when you break your fast, and rinse your mouth after sweets. Sugar-free gum can help when the mouth feels dry.
Check your gums each day as you brush. Bleeding that does not settle, or a sore that does not heal, should be checked by a dentist after the fast, or sooner if it is severe.
This article is general information. Please see a dentist for advice about your own teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Does brushing break my fast?
That is a religious question, so please ask a scholar you trust. We can advise on the cleaning itself, including how to rinse well.
Is it safe to have dental treatment while fasting?
Routine treatment can be planned around your fast. Tell us when you book, and we will plan the visit at a time that suits you.
What causes bad breath during Ramadan?
Fasting, dry mouth and changes in diet can all contribute. Gum disease and decay are also common causes, so a check-up helps.
Should I see a dentist for toothache during the fast?
Yes. Severe pain or swelling should be seen promptly, and we will advise on the fastest option.
Is it better to visit the dentist in the morning or evening during Ramadan?
Many people prefer the evening after iftar, when they have more energy. Tell us when you book, and we will choose the time that suits you best.
Sources
Have a question about your own teeth?
Book on WhatsApp, and our team will reply with the next steps.