In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves skipping breakfast due to time constraints or as part of an intermittent fasting regimen. Though, a dental expert is cautioning against this practice, highlighting potential adverse effects on dental health.

Lt. Gen. Dr vimal Arora, Chief Clinical Officer of Clove Dental, recently shared insights into the potential consequences of skipping breakfast on oral health. He emphasized that this seemingly harmless habit could pose a meaningful dental threat.

While intermittent fasting, particularly the 16/8 method, has gained popularity, Dr Arora suggests that its impact on dental well-being shoudl not be overlooked. This method typically involves fasting for 16 hours and restricting food consumption to an 8-hour window, often leading to the omission of breakfast.

According to Dr Arora, “Skipping breakfast leads to longer fasting windows, which alter the body’s internal rhythm. The result? Increased gastric acid production and a rise in GERD symptoms, especially in the morning. That lingering burning sensation you feel when you wake up? That’s stomach acid making its way into your oesophagus and mouth.”

Moreover, Dr Arora explained that reduced saliva production during fasting periods can exacerbate the issue. “During fasting, there’s no chewing activity to stimulate saliva production.saliva isn’t just a lubricant; it is indeed your body’s natural acid neutraliser. It contains bicarbonates and enzymes that cleanse, protect, and remineralise your teeth.”

Why is acidity a big threat to your teeth?

Acidity is one of the symptoms of GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, where stomach acid flows back into your mouth, causing a sour taste in mouth and burning sensation in the chest.(Shutterstock)” title=”Acidity is one of the symptoms of GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, where stomach acid flows back into your mouth and burning sensation in the chest.(Shutterstock)” loading=”lazy”/>

The increased acidity resulting from skipping breakfast, whether intentional or unintentional, poses a significant risk to dental health. Dr arora stated, “Acidity is also a dental threat. The oral cavity maintains a healthy pH close to neutral (around 7), but even a slight drop below 5.5 begins the silent destruction of your enamel through a process called demineralisation. This is how cavities form and sensitivity arises.”

“Acidity is also a dental threat. The oral cavity maintains a healthy pH close to neutral (around 7), but even a slight drop below 5.5 begins the silent destruction of your enamel.”

According to the dentist, stomach acid can affect teeth in two ways: externally, through acidic foods and beverages, and internally, through acid reflux caused by GERD.

Dr Arora also cautioned about Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS), stating, “Prolonged acidity can even lead to Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) in some individuals, a painful, tingling sensation frequently enough triggered by dry mouth and acid reflux.”

Crucial habits that support good dental health

To mitigate the potential risks associated with skipping breakfast, Dr Arora recommends adopting the following habits:

• Eat breakfast. It stimulates saliva, buffers morning acid, and curbs GERD.
• Begin your day with water, not coffee.
• Limit caffeine to after your first meal.
• Avoid smoking and vaping altogether,or at least don’t pair them with fasting and coffee.
• Visit your dentist regularly, especially after the age of 35.

For individuals with oral sensitivity, dr arora advises consulting a healthcare professional before starting intermittent fasting.