Answer

In Jain practice, during Chowvihaar, one should generally not brush teeth after taking the vow of Chowvihaar, because Chowvihaar means avoiding all food and water until the vow is completed.

Explanation

Brushing teeth usually involves:

• Use of water
• Possibility of swallowing water or toothpaste
• Disturbance to tiny living beings in water

Because of this, it is avoided during Chowvihaar.

If needed, one should brush and clean the mouth before starting Chowvihaar.

Spiritual Understanding

Chowvihaar is practiced to strengthen:

• Self-control
• Awareness
• Discipline over taste and bodily habits
• Respect for ahimsa

So once Chowvihaar is taken, avoiding brushing helps preserve the purity of the vow.

Takeaway

Brush your teeth before starting Chowvihaar. After Chowvihaar begins, avoid brushing until the vow is completed.