The Importance of Brushing Before Bed - Keeping Your Smile Healthy
Posted on 5/15/2025 by Lakewood Dental Arts
We all know how important it is to brush our teeth, but did you know that brushing before bed is especially crucial for maintaining good oral health? It's not just about waking up with fresh breath; it's about preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
The Science Behind Brushing Before Bed
As we sleep, our mouths produce less saliva. Saliva is our body's natural defense against bacteria, as it helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. Without saliva, harmful bacteria have more time to multiply and form plaque, a sticky film that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Brushing before bed removes plaque and food particles before they have a chance to do damage. This helps to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Additionally, brushing before bed can help to prevent staining from food and drinks.
More Than Just Brushing: A Complete Oral Care Routine
Brushing your teeth before bed is just one part of a complete oral care routine. Here are some additional tips for keeping your smile healthy:
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Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.
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Use mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
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See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can help you identify and treat any oral health problems early on.
Prevention is Key: Investing in Your Oral Health
Taking care of your oral health is an investment that will pay off in the long run. By brushing your teeth before bed and following a complete oral care routine, you can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. This will save you time, money, and discomfort in the future.
Making Brushing Before Bed a Habit
If you're not already in the habit of brushing your teeth before bed, here are a few tips to help you get started:
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Set a reminder. Set an alarm on your phone or use a reminder app to remind you to brush your teeth before bed.
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Make it part of your bedtime routine. Brush your teeth right after you wash your face and get into your pajamas.
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Keep your toothbrush and toothpaste handy. This will make it easier to brush your teeth before bed, even if you're tired.
Brushing your teeth before bed is a simple but important step you can take to protect your oral health. By making it a habit, you can help to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
About Lakewood Dental Arts | Dentist Lakewood CA Our focus is helping our patients to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles while providing a comfortable and friendly environment with each visit. Call today! Lakewood Dental Arts, 5555 Del Amo Blvd, Lakewood, CA 90713-2307 - (562) 384-1091 - lakewooddentalarts.com - 6/14/2025 - Page Phrases: dentist Lakewood CA -
We all know how important it is to brush our teeth, but did you know that brushing before bed is especially crucial for maintaining good oral health? It's not just about waking up with fresh breath; it's about preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.