When you start your day, how much time do you set aside for smile care? How likely are you to skip brushing your teeth if you oversleep? Your morning can set the tone for the rest of your day, but it is also an important time to focus on your oral health. With the right routine in place, you can keep yourself safe against the buildup of plaque and tartar that can lead to more serious oral health concerns. At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, we are prepared to offer advice on good oral hygiene habits during routine dental exams. Of course, we are also ready to step in and provide help if you exhibit any signs of poor oral health during an appointment.
Oral Bacteria Can Build Up While You Sleep
When your body is at rest, there are several physical changes that occur. One of those changes is a reduction in saliva production, which means your natural defense against bacteria is reduced. If you often wake up feeling self-conscious because of “morning breath,” this increase in bacteria can be responsible. This makes your morning brushing session particularly important. By working to thoroughly clean your smile, you can rid yourself of harmful agents that are responsible for causing cavities as well as gum disease. However, if you are guilty of sometimes rushing through or skipping brushing, this overnight accumulation of bacteria can make you more vulnerable to trouble!
Making Time To Brush Thoroughly Each Morning
If you want to thoroughly clean your teeth, give yourself at least two minutes to clean all of the surfaces of your smile. When people rush through this practice, they are more likely to leave the same hard-to-reach areas unaddressed on several occasions, which makes them more likely to need cavity treatment or a periodontal cleaning during their next checkup. One thing to remember is that thorough brushing and aggressive brushing are not the same. Brushing with more force will not make you more efficient, and it can actually create problems by wearing down your enamel.
How Does Your Typical Breakfast Affect Your Smile Health?
If your typical breakfast is high in sugar, you may be putting yourself at risk for cavities at the start of your day. Unfortunately, many convenient food items we enjoy at the start of the day are less healthy, and packed with sugar. Just as you should give yourself time to thoroughly brush each morning, you should try to carve out time for healthier breakfasts if you want to avoid problems.
Our Ankeny, IA Dentist’s Office Can Help You Maintain A Healthy Smile!
At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, individuals who want to keep their teeth in better health can meet with us to learn the importance of good oral hygiene. To find out more, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.
