Fasting and your mouth: why breath changes and how to protect your teeth

Do You Know? For patients.

Many people notice a change in their breath during the afternoon while fasting. It is not usually a sign that you forgot to brush.

What is happening

• Less saliva: without food or water, saliva flow drops, and saliva is the mouth's natural cleaner.

• A change in fuel: after many hours without food, the body starts burning fat and releases ketones, which have a distinct smell on the breath.

• Dry mouth and halitosis are among the most common oral complaints reported by people who fast.

A simple routine for fasting days

• At Suhoor: brush with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth and gently clean your tongue.

• Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor.

• After Iftar: if you had something acidic, such as juice or a fizzy drink, rinse with water and wait before brushing.

• Limit sticky sweets and dates late at night, or clean your teeth after them.

If bad breath or dry mouth continues after Ramadan, have it checked, as gum problems and other causes are treatable.

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This article is general information and not a substitute for an examination.

Reference

1. Mahmud S, et al. Oral hygiene practices and perceived dental health concerns among fasting adults during Ramadan: a hospital-based cross-sectional study. Mymensingh Med J. 2026;35(2):434-440.