We all have those nights when you are snuggled in bed, cozy and warm, watching an episode of your favorite show, or reading a book, on the brink of falling asleep, when it hits you—you haven’t brushed your teeth yet. Sometimes it is tempting to stay in bed, tell yourself that you’ll brush in the morning, that it is no big deal, but think again.
Falling asleep without brushing your teeth is bad for your oral health. What is at risk isn’t merely fresh breath. When you skip a brushing, you are encouraging the growth of bacteria, mainly plaque. Excessive plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease. Brushing displaces plaque, so when you forget to brush, the plaque sticks around, it begins attacking your teeth and, if left for long enough can become tartar.
Tartar is not only ugly, it is a hard, rough, and yellow substance, but it can also lead to inflammation and bleeding in the gums. If left for too long, it can even result in the loss of teeth.
So, instead of staying curled up in bed, next time make a point to brush before you turn in for the night, it is the key to a healthy mouth.
