It is important that we take care of our teeth as part of our daily regimen. When many people wake up and prepare for their day, they simply brush their teeth. But, what about oral care before bedtime? There are a few things you can do before bed to help keep your mouth and teeth healthy.

What should you do before bedtime?

• 1. The first thing you can do is obvious; brush your teeth. Many people who brush their teeth at least twice a day do it once before bedtime. It is important to know that if you had a late dinner or a snack you should wait a little bit if it was acidic. Things like juice are highly acidic and brushing immediately after consuming them can actually be bad for your enamel. Wait a little while, rinse your mouth with cold water, and then brush your teeth.

• 2. Flossing is also a must. Our toothbrushes can’t reach all the way in between our teeth and so flossing is critical to get into those tight areas. Flossing is also critical for gum health and poor gums are one of the leading causes to tooth decay.

• 3. A dentist approved mouth wash is also good. Mouth wash will help kill some of that unwanted bacteria in your mouth which through their life cycle damage teeth, causing cavities and oral diseases.

• 4. After your nightly regimen don’t eat or drinking anything other than water. Leaving food particles in your mouth while you sleep will lead to cavities, especially because they don’t readily leave your mouth because you are sleeping.