The community is debating the utility of brushing teeth immediately upon waking, with the consensus suggesting that the essentials actually lie in the consistency of brushing, rigorous use of dental floss, and the long-lasting application of fluoride, rather than in the precise timing relative to breakfast.

noli's read

The debate highlights a distinction between extreme optimization and the basics of oral hygiene. Evidence from systematic reviews (such as Cochrane) confirms that flossing is crucial for gum health, an element often underestimated compared to simple brushing. Regarding fluoride, the evidence is robust (meta-analyses on dental caries): it is prolonged exposure to fluoride that protects enamel, hence the recommendation not to rinse one's mouth after brushing. The idea of brushing before breakfast to protect enamel against the acidity of food is based on coherent biological logic, although clinical studies specifically comparing 'before vs. after' with long-term health outcomes are limited. The argument that immediate brushing is indispensable is often perceived by members as a marketing exaggeration, as they prioritize interventions with proven clinical impact. The community is sharply divided: a large majority rejects the obsessive approach of certain influencers in favor of conventional dental practices.

the sources

1. 1r/PeterAttia