Just like every year, the holy month of Ramazan has returned again with blessings and joy. Muslims celebrate this month by fasting, sacrificing hunger and thirst just to get closer to God.
By Dr Muattar Hanif
The abstinence from food and water throughout the day, help Muslims to indulge in self- reflection. However, the routine of fasting can make oral hygiene neglected. This gives rise to common oral health issues.
- Bad Breathe
Bad breath can be attributed to many factors. This usually happens when the tongue and teeth are not cleaned thoroughly. The food trapped between teeth can increase bacteria activity, leading to foul-smelling gases.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene
It is important to regularly brush your teeth twice a day and maintain good oral health through flossing.
It is a commonly misunderstood that toothpastes are not allowed during the holy month of Ramadan, though only handful of scholars of Islam say otherwise.
Hence it is advised to always brush and floss thoroughly before sleeping at night and after Suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
Mouthwashes are commonly prescribed by dentists as an adjunct to oral hygiene. Some patients may be reluctant to use mouth wash for fear of unintentionally swallowing some. If this is the case, you can use it outside fasting hours as advised by your dentist.
- Dry Mouth
The major cause of bad breathe is lack of salive flow in the mouth. During fasting the mouth can become increasingly dry, leading to discomfort. This can also results in bad smell in many cases.
Hence it is advised to drink lots of water between fasting period and brush your teeth properly.
What are your health tips for people who are fasting?
It is established fact that the main treatment for bad breath is to ensure we maintain good oral hygiene by cleansing the mouth of bacteria and food remnants. Below are the guidelines for maintaining good oral hygiene:
- Don't overeat during Iftar (dinner)
It is common practice that people indulge in heavy feasting during iftar, this will eventually lead to bloating and discomfort. It is better to have proportionate amount of food to keep your health intact..
- Avoid eating fried foods, salty foods and high-sugar foods
The high intake of sugar can accelerate the process of caries, hence it is advised to limit sugary drinks and processed food.
- Drink as much water as possible
It is recommended to have alteast 8 glasses of water per day to maintain health homeostasis. This can also avoid dry mouth and other discomfort sitautions.
- Keep your meals healthy.
It is better to include fruits, vegetable and whole grain products in your meal. Such diet will strengthen your health and keep you fit during Ramadan.
- Cut down on caffeinated drinks
It is better to avoid caffeinated drinks as they can accentuate dry mouth and can also leave an after taste.
