Eight hours can see a lot of changes in your mouth, especially if you're asleep and bacteria is accumulating on your teeth. However, don't let the idea of unpleasant plaque, cavities, tartar, or gingivitis prevent you from having a decent night's sleep. You may take care of your oral health while you sleep in a variety of ways.
Here are seven suggestions to help you and your mouth survive the evening.
1. Don’t forget to brush before sleeping
Brushing your teeth at night before bed can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and plaque buildup. Dentists advise brushing shortly after dinner and once more just before bed if you are particularly prone to cavities and gum disease.
2. Mind the way you’re brushing
The ideal approach to clean your teeth, according to experts, is to softly brush back and forth in short strokes. Prior to brushing the chewing surfaces, brush the outside tooth surfaces, then the inner tooth surfaces. Use the brush's tip to softly move up and down the backs of your front teeth.
3. Use an electric toothbrush instead
Plaque is removed from your teeth more effectively with an electric toothbrush head because of its oscillating and revolving motion. Make sure you select an electric toothbrush with a rotating-oscillating head that is easy to use and comfortable to hold.
4. Floss instead of just brushing
By flossing, you may get rid of plaque and food debris while they're still soft. Bacteria will grow throughout the night and feed off your teeth if this debris is left on your teeth. Furthermore, tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist during a professional cleaning, will form if the plaque is allowed to harden. Flossing only at night is fine for most people, but if you're prone to gum disease or tartar buildup, dentists recommend that you floss in the morning as well.
5. Use mouthwash to rinse
Therapeutic mouth rinses contain unique components that strengthen teeth and aid in the treatment of specific oral health disorders, so mouthwash isn't simply for fresh breath. Using a therapeutic mouthwash before night will help maintain your gums healthy and your teeth free of gingivitis and plaque.
Contrarily, the majority of over-the-counter, commercial mouthwashes, also referred to as cosmetic mouthwashes, are made to cover up bad breath and offer little in the way of benefits to your dental health. Consult your dentist about the best mouthwash for you.
6. Pay attention to teeth grinding
You might be grinding your teeth while you sleep if you have worn-down tooth enamel, increased tooth sensitivity, or damaged cheek tissue. Dentists can make you a mouth guard to wear at night to protect your teeth from the effects of grinding, but they can't stop you from doing it.
7. Visit the dentist frequently
Make sure to schedule routine cleanings and exams for your teeth. Over time, your dentist and hygienist will assist you in maintaining healthy gums and clean teeth. Just as important for a healthy mouth as good daytime and nighttime oral hygiene are preventive care and maintenance.
Even though your dental and oral health should never be compromised, many people simply clean their teeth once a day. It's also crucial to refrain from scheduling routine dental appointments.
It takes a lifetime to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. The sooner we develop good oral hygiene practices like routine brushing, flossing, and limiting sugar intake, the easier it will be to avoid expensive dental procedures and achieve those enviously white pearly teeth!