One of the most impactful and necessary aspects of good oral care is brushing your teeth. Though many adults and children alike brush their teeth at night, this isn’t enough to combat harmful bacteria and prevent oral diseases. To learn more about the importance of brushing and how often you should do it, consider the guide below.

Why Is Brushing Necessary?

Your mouth is home to a variety of bacteria. Some are harmful and can lead to tooth decay while others help to break down the food you chew. However, bacteria multiply quickly, and if you don’t brush your teeth regularly, they can damage the enamel and lead to cavities and decay.

Brushing also prevents tartar from building up on teeth and making them difficult to clean. If a tartar buildup occurs, a dentist will have to scrape your teeth to remove it because brushing won’t do the job. If the tartar isn’t removed, it can lead to gum disease, which can impact your overall health. It’s been linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?

Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Brushing in the morning improves your oral care routine because it helps rid your mouth of harmful bacteria that build up overnight.

Refrain from brushing right before breakfast. Otherwise, you’ll leave your mouth vulnerable to bacteria and sugars from the food you eat. Brush your teeth before bed to clean away the sugars and acids from the meals and snacks you had throughout the day. While some people think brushing is necessary after every meal, you can instead drink plenty of water after eating to wash away food particles.

Brushing your teeth twice daily is an excellent start to an effective oral care routine, but you’ll still need the help of a skilled dentist to protect your smile and health. Lisa Tatum J DDS and her team provide exceptional dental services to people of all ages throughout Waynesboro, VA. Dr. Tatum is highly experienced in everything from preventative treatments to restorative services. To schedule an oral exam, call (540) 943-0973 or visit her website for more details about her full list of services.