Eight hours can bring about a lot of problems in your mouth, especially if you’re asleep and bacteria is building up on your teeth. You shouldn’t let worrying about bad plaque, cavities, tartar or gingivitis keep you from getting a restful night’s sleep. You can maintain your dental health while sleeping.
These are some tips to help you and your mouth get through the night.
Brush your teeth before you go to bed.
It is important to brush your teeth before going to bed at night in order to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay and gum disease. Your Rancho Cucamonga Dentists may recommend brushing your teeth immediately after eating and again before going to bed if you have gum disease or cavities.
Use good forms.
According to dentists the best way to clean your teeth are to gently brush them in short strokes. First, brush the outer surfaces of your teeth, then the inner surfaces and finally the chewing surfaces. Use the tip of your toothbrush to clean the backs and gently stroke up and down.
Use an electric toothbrush instead.
The rotating and oscillating motion of the toothbrush head removes more plaque than regular toothbrushes. Make sure you choose an electric toothbrush that is comfortable to hold and easy to use.
Brush more than you brush!
Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque while your teeth are still soft. If the debris remains on your teeth, bacteria can grow throughout the night and feed from them while you sleep.
If the plaque remains untreated, it can harden and turn to tartar. A professional cleaning will not remove tartar. You can floss at night for most people. However, if you have gum disease or tartar buildup dentists suggest that you floss in morning.
Use mouthwash.
Tooth wash is not just for fresh breath. Therapeutic mouth rinses have special ingredients that strengthen your teeth and treat certain oral conditions. Use a therapeutic mouthwash to rinse your teeth before going to bed. This will keep your gums healthy and prevent plaque and cavities.
Contrary to popular belief, most over-the-counter, commercial mouthwashes, also known as cosmetic, are only designed to mask bad taste and won’t improve your oral health. Discuss which mouthwash is best for you with your Rancho Cucamonga Dentist.
Avoid teeth grinding.
You may grind your teeth while you sleep if you have worn enamel, sensitive teeth, or a weakened cheek tissue.
Rancho Cucamonga Dentists won’t prevent you from grinding, but they can provide a mouthguard that you can use at night to protect your teeth against the harmful effects of grinding.
See your dentist regularly.
Regular dental cleanings and checkups are important. Rancho Cucamonga dentist and hygienists will help keep your teeth and gums healthy for the long-term. Preventive care and maintenance are equally important to a healthy mouth.