It is no surprise that brushing your teeth is vital to oral health. It will also not surprise you to learn that optimal oral health calls for multiple brushings per day. At the very least, we should all brush, like clockwork, just after waking up and immediately before going to bed.
We’re looking today at the importance of brushing in general and why nighttime brushing is particularly crucial.
Why Is Brushing At Night So Important?
Simply put, brushing your teeth at night is vital to oral health, as it clears out the food particles that accumulate in your mouth throughout the day that, if allowed to linger, will feed the harmful bacteria that contribute to the buildup of plaque and tartar, the long-term risks of which include:
- Cavities and tooth decay
- The swelling, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums that signal periodontal disease
- Chronic bad breath
- Infections affecting the gums and underlying jawbone that can spread to other parts of the body and negatively impact the cardiovascular system
It’s for this very straightforward reason that, no matter how tired or sluggish you’re feeling, brushing your teeth before hitting the hay is an absolute must.
Why Is Brushing Your Teeth in the Morning Important?
Again, it will come as news to precisely no one that brushing your teeth at the start of your day contributes to oral health.
In this case, this is because the flow of saliva, which naturally dissolves tooth enamel-eroding, cavity-causing acids produced by harmful bacteria, dips while we sleep. This, unfortunately, means that the nighttime hours give these harmful elements a chance to thrive. The good news is that brushing in the morning is an extremely easy and effective countermeasure in this fight.
By brushing every single morning and evening, you will dramatically reduce the risks posed to your teeth, gums, and overall well-being by harmful bacteria while also ensuring that bad breath, which isn’t only a cosmetic concern but also an indicator of tooth decay remains a non-issue.
Preventive Dentistry in Elk Grove, CA
If you’re looking for a family dentist in Elk Grove, CA, to help optimize your at-home oral care routine and quickly address any minor dental issues long before they become major problems, contact dentist Dr. Mohamad Albik and the Laguna Springs Dental team to schedule an appointment!