In the quest for optimal oral hygiene, UK dental surgeon Shaadi Manouchehri has introduced a three-step routine that is capturing the attention of dental professionals and the public alike. Her regimen, which includes brushing before breakfast, scraping the tongue twice daily, and using mouthwash before brushing, aims to enhance overall dental health and prevent common issues such as cavities and bad breath.Manouchehri emphasizes the importance of brushing teeth before breakfast. “If you eat immediately after waking up, bacteria that have multiplied overnight can attack your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum issues,” she explains. By brushing first, you remove these bacteria and shield your teeth from acidic foods and drinks consumed at breakfast. This practice also boosts saliva production, which helps in digestion and further cleanses the mouth.In addition to brushing, Manouchehri advocates for tongue scraping twice a day. Using a copper tongue scraper in the morning and evening helps remove bacterial buildup and reduces bad breath. “Copper has natural antibacterial properties, and a scraper is both effective and reusable,” she notes. This simple step can also enhance taste perception.The third component of Manouchehri’s routine involves using mouthwash before brushing. Contrary to traditional advice of using mouthwash after brushing, she recommends rinsing with mouthwash first to eliminate bacteria and debris before brushing and flossing. This approach ensures that fluoride from the toothpaste remains effective without being rinsed away by the mouthwash.Despite these recommendations, some dental experts, like Dr. Marc Lowenberg, suggest that using mouthwash after brushing and flossing may be more beneficial for overall oral health. Lowenberg’s routine involves flossing, brushing for two minutes, waiting 30 minutes, and then swishing with mouthwash.