Fasting is one of the most significant and sacred acts of worship in Islam. Fasting is not only observed in Ramadan, but one can also fast voluntarily on other days of the year. It is a way to self-discipline yourself, have some spiritual purification, and be closer to Allah, سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى. During fasting, one must refrain from eating, drinking, and specific physical activities from Fajr prayer to Maghrib prayer to receive blessings from Allah, سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى.
Nowadays, due to modern ways, certain questions arise in the mind related to fasting. Muslims strive to protect their fasts from certain things that can invalidate them. One common question is: Can one brush their teeth during fasting?
In this blog, we will provide you with guidance on the ruling regarding whether it is permissible to brush your teeth or what precautions should be taken while brushing if you are fasting.
What Breaks the Fast in Islam?
According to Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh), there are specific actions that clearly break the fast. Acts that completely break the fast include drinking, eating, and intentionally engaging in sexual activities during fasting hours. The main principle of fasting is that anything entering the body cavity through natural openings, such as the mouth, nose, or private parts, can potentially break the fast, specifically if it provides hydration or nourishment.
Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى has explained in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah 187 as follows:
“Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn appears clear from the dark line, then fast until the night falls; and abstain from your wives (when you have decided) to stay in the mosques for assiduous devotion.”
In this verse, it is clearly described that one should refrain from such things while fasting. Scholars also interpret this verse as suggesting that a person deliberately allows anything to enter the digestive system.
It is also essential to differentiate between nourishing and non-nourishing substances. Food and drinks provide nourishment, while certain medications are non-nourishing. Accidental intake of food or drink also does not invalidate the fast. Moreover, intention (niyyah) also serves a great importance; thus, a fast remains valid if one does not deliberately eat or drink. Keeping these points in mind, let us discuss the rules regarding brushing teeth.
Brushing Teeth During Fasting: The Ruling
The following are the rulings regarding the bruising of teeth:
· The Use of Miswak in Sunnah
Miswak is a natural teeth-cleaning twig. The use of Miswak is considered a Sunnah in Islam and is also encouraged during fasting. Hazrat Muhammad (ﷺ) regularly used Miswak and recommended it to other Sahaba as well.
It highlights the importance of maintaining oral hygiene during fasting, as well as throughout the day. Scholars agree that using miswak does not break the fast, as nothing is swallowed during its use. Thus, it does not contradict the essence of fasting. Miswak has a natural, mild taste, but it is permissible as it does not provide any nourishment. Therefore, miswak is a very good option for oral hygiene during fasting, as it is also Sunnah.
· Brushing Teeth with Toothpaste
Muslims use toothpaste and toothbrushes nowadays instead of miswak. That is why this innovation raises a question of whether brushing teeth with toothpaste invalidates the fast. Most scholars consider brushing teeth while fasting permissible, provided one is careful to avoid swallowing any water or toothpaste. Brushing itself is not considered a reason that can invalidate the fast, but reaching something down the throat can break the fast.
It is essential to make sure that the fast remains valid; thus, there are some recommendations which are given as follows:
- Try to use as little water as possible so there is no risk of water going down your throat.
- Avoid toothpaste with flavour, as there is a risk of swallowing it.
- Try to opt for a dry toothbrush if possible.
- After brushing, rinse thoroughly so that no residue remains, which poses a risk of accidents or swallowing.
According to some scholars, one should avoid using toothpaste during fasting hours, as there is a significant chance that the flavor may reach the throat. Thus, it is recommended to brush the teeth before Suhoor and after Iftar so there is no doubt and the essence of fasting remains.
In summary, brushing teeth with toothpaste does not invalidate the fast, but one should exercise caution and brush with care.
Opinions of Islamic Scholars and Fiqh Councils
The four major schools of thought have extensively discussed whether brushing teeth invalidates fasting or not. We have a common point that fast does not break if nothing enters the stomach. Brushing is considered a source of maintaining oral hygiene, as rinsing is allowed during ablution. The Hanafi and Shafi’i Fiqh stress that using a toothbrush without toothpaste is less risky and can be done while fasting. However, if one is using toothpaste, then they must be extra careful as the flavour can be accidentally swallowed.
The Maliki and Hanbali schools of thought recommend using a miswak, but also permit brushing, provided one is cautious. They encourage miswak as it is Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Thus, a school of thought considers brushing allowed, but being extra cautious that nothing is swallowed. However, it is better to use Miswak and avoid brushing, thereby eliminating any risk and doubt.
Tips for Brushing Teeth Safely While Fasting
These are some tips that can be followed to brush teeth while fasting:
- Try to brush your teeth before the Suhoor time ends, and then after Iftar, so there are no risks.
- If you need to brush your teeth during fasting, use minimal water and try to prevent any water from reaching your throat, even accidentally.
- It is better to switch to Miswak as there is no risk, and it is also Sunnah.
- One should be mindful and refrain from actions that risk violating the fast.
Conclusion
Brushing teeth with toothpaste is permissible while fasting as long as nothing is swallowed. Islam is not a religion that does not allows flexibility. One should maintain the essence of fasting and be able to perform regular duties as on normal days. Miswak is considered a safe option during fasting, as it poses no risks. Using miswak is Sunnah, so it is best to use this alternative method while fasting. If you have any doubts, consult a scholar to clear them up. Thus, the essence of worship remains significant, and you get blessings from Allah, سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use mouthwash during fasting?
No. It is discouraged to use mouthwash, as it is in liquid form and can enter the throat, potentially invalidating the fast.
2. What if I accidentally swallow toothpaste while brushing?
The fast is invalidated as brushing is not compulsory, so even accidental swallowing of toothpaste or water during brushing can break your fast. The person must make up the fast after (qada).
3. Is using flavoured toothpaste considered nourishment?
It is not a type of nourishment, but if it enters the stomach, then it can invalidate the fast.
