It’s important to establish a healthy and consistent dental hygiene routine. This includes taking care of your teeth before going to bed, even when you’re tired and ready to sleep. Before you set your alarm and drift into dreamland, make sure you’ve completed every step on this nightly dental checklist.
Brush and floss those teeth
This one goes without saying, but before you go to sleep, brush your teeth for approximately two minutes. It’s also important to floss at least once a day to remove any food particles trapped between teeth. Flossing regularly can also prevent cavities and gum disease.
Don’t forget your tongue
Don’t forget about your tongue! The muscle is also part of your overall oral hygiene. Use a tongue scraper or brush your tongue to remove bacteria and debris that may be stuck to its surface. Drinking water often can also help keep your tongue clean!
Avoid snacking before bed, hydrate instead
Snacking right before bed is not only bad for your overall health, it’s also bad for your oral health and hygiene. It’s best to wait three hours after eating before going to bed, as snacking right before bed can increase the risk of cavities and acid reflux.
Use a night guard or retainer
If you grind your teeth, try investing in a night guard or retainer to prevent damage and wear. This can also help if you experience jaw pain or headaches caused by excessive teeth grinding. If you’ve had orthodontic work done, be sure to wear your retainer every night to prevent teeth shifting back to their original places.
If it’s been a while since you visited the dentist, schedule an appointment with Jackson Dental today by calling 573-243-5200 or visiting our office on 3100 E Jackson Blvd. in Jackson.