Dentist urges everyone to wake up at same time each morning for 'perfect teeth'

Most of us are in the habit of brushing our teeth at roughly the same times each day. This routine, ingrained since childhood, is aimed at keeping our smile in top condition.

A dental professional has pointed out a 'perfect time' for brushing that could save our teeth from suffering. However, it might not be great news for those who love a morning lie-in, as it involves getting up quite early.

Ordo's dental expert Dr Zaeem has stated the best time to head to the bathroom each morning for that crucial two-minute clean. Despite being one of life's more tedious tasks, maintaining oral hygiene is critical, with neglect potentially leading to severe issues such as tooth decay - and even total tooth loss.

You should have regular dental check-ups even if you do not have any problems. Staying ahead of any issues can avoid expensive procedures, like extractions, before things become irreversible.

That said, the specific time you choose to brush can have a greater effect than previously thought. reports the Mirror. Dr Zaeem said: "Brushing your teeth at 7.15am is the perfect time to give your teeth a clean after waking up in the morning.

"While you sleep, plaque-causing bacteria in your mouth multiply and that's why you may wake up with a fluffy taste in the mouth and 'morning breath'. This is why it's not always wise to indulge in a lie in, as the longer you sleep in, the more time the bacteria has to multiply. Washing bacteria away early in the morning with fluoride toothpaste rids the teeth of plaque and bacteria."

By setting your alarm a little earlier and getting this process over and done with, your teeth will be coated with a protective barrier against acid in your food, setting you up for a day of healthy teeth. The dental professional added that brushing before you have any breakfast is also a good idea.

Dr Zaeem said: "Another benefit of brushing first thing in the morning, before breakfast, is that you also jump-start your saliva production. Your saliva helps your food break down and naturally kills harmful bacteria in your mouth helping to create a healthy smile for the day ahead."

While it might be controversial for some, you should avoid brushing your teeth after breakfast. Brushing immediately after eating breakfast may actually cover the teeth with remnants of acidic food, which weakens the enamel even further from the overnight bacteria that has built up in your mouth.

Dr Zaeem warned that breakfast staples are "some of the worst foods for the tooth enamel". This includes firm favourites like orange juice and cereals.

Dr Zaeem advises that your second brush of the day should be the very last thing you do before bed, even if it's "literally minutes before you get into bed". They also stressed: "Except for water, it's really important that you don't eat or drink anything between your evening brush and sleep, so it makes sense to leave this until right before getting into bed."