One of Islam's five pillars is fasting, which is observed during the holy month of Ramadan. Most people are aware that throughout Ramadan, Muslims abstain from consuming food and drink from dawn until sunset as part of their religious observance.

Many Muslims who fast during this holy time postpone getting their teeth cleaned out of concern about breaking their fast. Even among medical experts, there is some skepticism over the effects of treating a patient who is fasting. As such, it is important to pay attention to one's oral health during Ramadan to ensure that dental problems do not arise.

What benefits does fasting provide?
Fasting promotes the development of self-control and self-discipline, the purification of the mind and body, and an understanding of the plight of the hungry and destitute. In addition to the spiritual benefits of fasting during Ramadan, there are innumerable health benefits as well.

Can You Floss or Brush Your Teeth When Fasting?
Although using toothpaste while fasting is permitted during the holy month of Ramadan, some Islamic scholars believe it to be very undesirable since doing so would invalidate the fast whether on purpose or accidentally.

You may always thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before going to bed at night, and brushing after Suhoor (pre-dawn meal). The only thing necessary to avoid oral diseases is twice-daily brushing.

Is Mouthwash Safe to Use While Fasting?
Dentists often recommend mouthwash as an addition to oral hygiene. Some people may be hesitant to use mouthwash out of concern that they could accidentally swallow some of it. If so, you may use it as your dentist has suggested outside of the fasting hours.

Do Dental Visits Break Your Fast?
1. While some patients believe that dental operations may invalidate their fast, local anesthetics (injections) are acceptable kinds of therapy for people who are fasting throughout Ramadan. Even if there is no immediate pain or suffering, it is better to reschedule or postpone treatments when patients are hesitant.
2. Can preventive care and dental treatments break the fast? - The answer is no.
3. Does extraction break the fast? An extraction falls under the category of a preventive therapy and is thus allowed since it may be done to stop an infection from spreading.
4. Does getting a filling nullify your fast ? - As long as you avoid swallowing liquids, any dental operation, including fillings, tooth extractions, root canals, and other procedures, shouldn't cause you to break your fast. If you believe it will be difficult to refrain from ingesting water and the operation is urgent, the fast can be broken. If not, the appointment should ideally be set up after Ramadan.
5. Individuals who need urgent or advanced care, such as those with a chronic sickness that is becoming worse or those who have a dental emergency, may break the fast. If it is feasible, the dentist will postpone or reschedule their patients' appointments.

What advice would you provide to patients who desire to fast while taking medication?
Oral drugs are not allowed and invalidate the fast. It is permitted to break the fast if you get unwell because withholding treatment might have harmful effects or be life-threatening.

You may talk to your dentist if a dental issue arises during the fasting month of Ramadan and you require medicines. Depending on how long you've been fasting, he or she may be able to change the amount of your meds or both.

Here are some things you need to know about Ramadan and oral health:
- Brush your teeth regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning after suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and once after iftar (meal after sunset).
- Floss daily: Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque that are stuck between your teeth.
- Stay hydrated: It is important to drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours to keep your mouth hydrated. This will help to prevent dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and tooth decay.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks: When breaking your fast, avoid sugary foods and drinks such as soda, juice, and candy. These foods can contribute to tooth decay and other dental problems.
- Be mindful of oral health issues: During Ramadan, it is important to pay attention to any signs of dental problems such as toothaches, sensitivity, or bleeding gums. It's important to consult a dentist right away if you encounter any of these signs.
- Schedule dental appointments outside of fasting hours: If you need to see a dentist during Ramadan, try to schedule your appointment outside of fasting hours. This will ensure that you can receive proper dental care without compromising your fast.

In summary, maintaining good oral health during Ramadan requires regular brushing and flossing, staying hydrated, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, being mindful of oral health issues, and scheduling dental appointments outside of fasting hours. By following these tips, you can ensure that your oral health remains in good condition during this important month.

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Reference:
https://www.drmichaels.com/blog/ramadan-and-oral-health