Does using toothpaste replace the miswak, and is one rewarded for using it with the intention of purifying the mouth, meaning does it equal the miswak in the reward that was encouraged?
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The questioner : Your sister asks, does using toothpaste replace the miswak, and is one rewarded for using it with the intention of purifying the mouth, meaning does it equal the miswak in the reward that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged for one who uses the miswak?
The Shaykh : Yes. Using the toothbrush and toothpaste replaces the miswak; in fact, it is more effective in cleaning and purifying. If a person does this, the recommended practice (sunnah) is achieved, because the essence is not in the tool, but in the act and the result. The toothbrush and toothpaste achieve a greater result than the miswak alone. However, do we say that it is necessary to use toothpaste and a toothbrush every time the use of the miswak is recommended, or do we say that this falls under the category of extravagance and excessive rigor, and perhaps it affects the mouth with a smell, a wound, or something similar? This requires consideration. Yes.
The Shaykh : Yes. Using the toothbrush and toothpaste replaces the miswak; in fact, it is more effective in cleaning and purifying. If a person does this, the recommended practice (sunnah) is achieved, because the essence is not in the tool, but in the act and the result. The toothbrush and toothpaste achieve a greater result than the miswak alone. However, do we say that it is necessary to use toothpaste and a toothbrush every time the use of the miswak is recommended, or do we say that this falls under the category of extravagance and excessive rigor, and perhaps it affects the mouth with a smell, a wound, or something similar? This requires consideration. Yes.