Tackling Your Dental Treatment Plan

If you thought that the only thing that goes on while you're in "slumber-land" is a sequence of sweet dreams, then what you know is just half the story. You will be surprised to realize that there's a lot that happens in your mouth than you would like to admit. For starters, bacteria capitalize on the 8 hours you spend sleeping to gather on your teeth, triggering dental problems such as gingivitis, tartar formation and cavities. If you are plagued by any of these dental problems, read on to find out the 7 known secrets that will help you improve your oral health during those crucial hours you need your rest (and your goodnight kiss) the most.

1. Brush your Teeth before Bed

Dentists and hygienists recommend that your brush your teeth straight away after dinner and just before going to bed. This helps to protect against gum disease, tooth decay and plague buildup.

2. Brush all Round

When brushing, you should ensure that you brush your teeth back and forth gently and in short strokes. You should start by brushing the outer teeth surfaces, followed by the inner tooth surfaces, and lastly the chewing surfaces. You should use the tip of your toothbrush to stroke up and down gently.

3. Get Yourself an Electric Toothbrush

If you have been stuck with a regular toothbrush all your life, it's the high time you ditched it and replaced it with an electric one. An electric toothbrush is more effective in removing plaque than a regular toothbrush. When choosing an electric toothbrush, ensure that it not only has the rotating, oscillating head, but that it is also easy to use and comfortable to hold.

4. Don't Forget to Floss

When you let debris stay on your teeth overnight, then you give bacteria a chance to build up. To ensure that this doesn't occur, you should floss right before bed to remove plaque buildup and food particles while they're still fresh.

5. Make Use of Therapeutic Mouth Rinses

You get more from a mouthwash than just fresh breath. Therapeutic mouthwash and mouth rinses come packed with special ingredients that help treat a variety of oral problems and strengthen teeth.

6. Wear a Mouth Guard If You Grind Teeth

Grinding teeth leads to increased tooth sensitivity, tearing of cheek tissue and wearing off of the enamel. If you do grind your teeth in your sleep, it's advisable that you get a mouth guard.

7. Pay Regular Visits to Your Dentist

Having regular dental checkups will do your teeth and your entire dental formula a lot of good. Your hygienist or dentist will help keep your gums healthy and your teeth clean over the long run.

Now that the secrets to improved oral health at night have been revealed, you are already aware of what you should do. Most of it is for you to do it yourself, while the rest is for the dentist, like those at Neu Family Dental Center.