The easiest way to take care of your teeth is by incorporating tasks like brushing and flossing into your daily routine. Although it is essential to brush when you first wake up to get rid of morning breath, most people find it convenient to make flossing part of their bedtime routine. For optimum oral health, there are some other habits that your family dentist wants you to maintain in addition to brushing and flossing before your head hits the pillow. Below, Susan Kleier, DMD, in Lexington, KY, shares a few of them.

Family Dentist Shares 3 Healthy Habits to Incorporate Into Your Bedtime Routine

1. Rinse With Mouthwash

Mouthwash is designed to kill bacteria, so rinsing before bed can help prevent decay while you sleep. If your teeth are especially vulnerable to damage or you have an oral health condition like gingivitis, your family dentist can recommend a more powerful rinse to use every night.

2. Stop Late-Night Snacking

If you snack after brushing your teeth in the evening, bacteria will thrive on the sugar left in your mouth while you sleep. Late night snacking can also affect your health in general and lead to obesity, so it is a good idea to avoid doing so.  

3. Wear a Mouth Guard

If you grind your teeth while you sleep, it is essential to wear a mouth guard every night. Otherwise, the grinding motion will wear down the enamel over time, making your teeth more vulnerable to serious damage and decay. Symptoms of bruxism, or teeth grinding, include headaches, facial pain, disrupted sleep, worn teeth, and broken fillings.

Visiting your family dentist regularly is another important habit to incorporate into your oral health regimen. If it has been more than six months since your last exam, turn to Susan Kleier, DMD, in Lexington, KY. You can learn more about the dental care she provides by visiting her website. To schedule a teeth cleaning today, call (859) 225-1188.