Brushing One's Teeth on Shabbat

Brushing One's Teeth on Shabbat Day: Wednesday Date: May 13, 2015 Parshat: Behar/Behukotai Yalkut Yosef: 326 A person who will be otherwise uncomfortable may brush his teeth on Shabbat if doing so doesn't normally cause his gums to bleed. No special toothbrush or toothpaste is necessary. It is better to use toothpaste that has a runny consistency, or to use mouthwash instead, and to have a designated Shabbat toothbrush if possible. It is even better to refrain from brushing altogether on Shabbat if it won't cause discomfort. Obviously, any electric functions on a toothbrush may not be used on Shabbat. It should be noted that there are some Poskim who do not allow brushing one's teeth on Shabbat at all and some who only allow using one's finger as a brush. However, our custom is to follow those Poskim who allow it under the conditions mentioned above. The DSH is brought to you in memory of Rabbi Mordechai ben Daniel. Please visit us online at sephardichalacha.org