A good oral hygiene routine is your best defense against severe oral health problems. A good oral hygiene routine consists of a daily routine of brushing and flossing at least twice a day, drinking plenty of water, being mindful about food and drink choices, and visiting your dentist at least every six months for an exam and a cleaning. A good bedtime routine for oral hygiene is also important for your smile’s health. It can be easy to get caught up in your busy life and fall asleep without brushing your teeth, but it can become a dangerous habit for your smile. Even the occasional midnight snack can be problematic if you forget to brush afterward. Making sure your smile is clean before you go to sleep can help you to keep your smile bright and healthy.
A Sleeping Mouth Is a Bacterial Hotbed
Your body slows down on saliva production to prevent choking while you are asleep. This lack of saliva makes your mouth extremely dry, which is one reason that you may wake up thirsty. A dry mouth is a a perfect place for bacteria to reproduce. If you have any leftover food or drink particles in your mouth, they can become a feast for the oral bacteria to feed on and multiply. Harmful bacteria in your smile can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
What’s the Last Thing to Touch Your Teeth?
If the answer to this question is often anything besides water, a toothbrush, or floss, you should rethink your bedtime routine. Leaving anything in your mouth, even cough syrup (because it can stick to your teeth) can be fodder for your oral bacteria to turn into decay-causing acid. If you end up having a late-night snack or beverage (besides water), be sure to brush your teeth after and before you go to sleep.
Do you have a good bedtime routine for your smile?
Having a good routine before bedtime can help you keep your mouth healthy. To schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Spring Hill, Osawatomie, Edgerton, Shawnee, Johnson County, De Soto, Paola, Lawrence, and all surrounding communities.