Article
Addressing misconceptions in relation to fasting and oral health during Ramadan
As a dentist who worked in practice, I became aware of a situation that requires addressing in the dental community. With Ramadan approaching, there are certain misconceptions that exist that need discussion in relation to oral health and fasting.
Ramadan is a holy month in the Muslim calendar in which healthy and medically fit Muslims fast from dawn to dusk meaning no fluid, food or medication during sunlight hours. Some Muslims misinterpret this as not brushing their teeth due to the fear of swallowing/tasting the toothpaste, resulting in invalidation of the fast.
We must educate our patients that they are able to maintain excellent oral hygiene even during fasting periods, because they ultimately spit out the toothpaste (and even blood from gingival bleeding), they do not swallow it.
We can ensure to offer different forms of oral hygiene habits, whether this is using toothpaste with a toothbrush, or even using the miswak. A miswak is a teeth cleaning twig made from the Salvadora persica tree and is predominant in Muslim-inhabited areas. Although not mentioned directly in the Qur'an, the use of a miswak is highlighted in Prophetic teachings.
As dental professionals, we have a duty to highlight these issues while remaining respectful to the patients and their beliefs. Patients should brush their teeth and spit out the toothpaste afterwards, as many scholars confirm that this will not invalidate the fast.