Why You Need to Brush Your Teeth before Sleep

On late nights, you might be tempted to fall into bed without brushing your teeth, but that is a habit you could quickly come to regret. Brushing refreshes your breath and keeps your smile presentable, but it also disrupts oral bacteria, prevents tooth decay, and gum disease. Failing to brush just once might not sound like such a big deal, but it allows bacteria to grow unchecked.

Every day, oral bacteria form a sticky biofilm called plaque. Plaque develops on your teeth, and brushing twice a day removes it. This keeps your teeth clean and fresh. If plaque stays in one place too long, it can become mineralized, or hardened into tartar – a yellowish, unsightly substance that can only be removed by a dental professional.

To keep your teeth healthier, take a few extra minutes each night to brush your teeth before bed. Each session should last about two minutes, and you must reach all surfaces of your teeth using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to floss daily to remove any plaque between your teeth. If desired, you can also add an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash when you are finished brushing. You need to brush at least twice a day for the best results.

Gum, mouthwash, and mints might give you fresher breath, but nothing can replace the plaque-destroying features of tooth brushing. Call our office today to find out more or to schedule your next appointment with our dentists.