Ramadan is an important religious period that takes place over approximately one lunar month and involves daily fasting from dawn (suhoor) until sunset (iftar). Over a billion Muslims observe Ramadan each year, with over 3 million of them in the UK alone.[i]
While fasting is generally safe – particularly for healthy individuals – as Ramadan begins this month, dental professionals should be more aware of things to look out for and ways to support their patients taking part in Ramadan. Specifically, it is important to note the changes in eating and drinking patterns that can have an impact on oral hygiene – something which the right advice can help them overcome.
The oral cavity
The extended periods of time without consuming any liquids can significantly reduce saliva production. This causes xerostomia, which influences plaque development, halitosis, and increased risk of dental decay and caries. Without saliva’s supporting role of neutralising acids and cleaning excess debris, the oral cavity has a more difficult job maintaining its natural defence systems and makes it more difficult for people to attain great oral health.
Psychological concerns
Patient behaviour also alters during fasting. Some individuals might avoid routine dental appointments or even spontaneously required ones, due to worries that it is invalidating their fast. As mentioned by Dentistry, this is a normal and common concern with Ramadan, but the following oral care practices and hygienic procedures do not break a fast:
Important communication
Dental professionals should clearly communicate with patients observing Ramadan to support their confidence, address their concerns, and maintain their oral health. Guidance should include recommending patients brush with fluoride toothpaste after meals taken before dawn and after sunset to minimise bacterial growth.
This support should also extend to dietary advice during non-fasting hours. High sugar / acidic foods consumed during iftar can encourage the growth of harmful plaque if not properly maintained. Patients should also ensure sufficient hydration and avoid excessive sugar intake during the non-fasting hours.
With such a vast number of people observing Ramadan each year, appropriate advice and the right support allows patients to continue celebrating their cultural practices without compromising their oral health.
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[i] Ramadan at work (2022) Muslim Census. Available at: https://muslimcensus.co.uk/ramadan-at-work/ (Accessed: 18 February 2026).
