Nighttime Oral Care
A lot can happen to your mouth in eight hours, especially when you are sleeping. During this time, bacteria can gather on your teeth. But don’t let the thought of nasty plaque, cavities, tartar, or gingivitis stop you from getting a good night’s rest. There are many ways to maintain your oral health while you sleep.
Brush before you Sleep
Brushing your teeth before you go to sleep at night helps protect against plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. If you are particularly susceptible to cavities and gum disease, we recommend that you brush immediately after dinner, then again right before bedtime.
Brush Properly
The best way to clean your teeth is to brush back and forth gently in short strokes. Brush the outer tooth surfaces first, then the inner tooth surfaces, followed by the chewing surfaces. To clean the backs of your front teeth, use the tip of the brush and stroke gently up and down.
Use an Electric toothbrush
The rotating and oscillating movement of the electric toothbrush head removes plaque from your teeth more efficiently than a regular toothbrush. Be sure to choose an electric toothbrush that’s comfortable to hold, easy to use, and has the rotating-oscillating head.
Make sure to Floss
Flossing removes food particles and plaque buildup while it’s still soft. If this debris stays on the teeth, bacteria will increase throughout the night and feed off them while you’re sleeping. Furthermore, if the plaque is allowed to harden, it will turn into tartar, and tartar can only be removed during a professional cleaning. Flossing only at night is fine for most people, but if you are prone to gum disease or tartar buildup, dentists recommend that you floss in the morning as well.
Remember to Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash isn’t just for fresh breath, therapeutic mouth rinses contain special ingredients that strengthen teeth and help treat certain oral health conditions. Rinsing with a mouthwash before bed will help keep your teeth free of plaque and cavities and your gums safe from gingivitis. Make sure to contact us about which mouthwash is right for you.
Regular Dental Visits
Be sure to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings. We will help you keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy over the long run. Remember, preventive care and maintenance are just as important for a healthy mouth as good daytime and nighttime oral hygiene.