You might think brushing your teeth once a day is enough to keep your pearly whites in great shape, but did you know that it is important to do it twice a day?
In fact, according to a study published by the American Dental Association, your teeth needs to be brushed twice a day to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by up to 80%.
The Science Behind Brushing Twice a Day
When you brush your teeth, you’re removing plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease, so it’s important to remove it as often as possible. Regular dental checkups are also recommended.
But here’s the thing: plaque starts to form again as soon as you finish brushing. That’s why the habit to brush twice a day is important.
How Does Brushing In The Morning Help?
In the morning, it helps to remove the plaque that’s built up overnight, while at night before bed, it helps to remove the plaque that’s formed during the day.
A study by the British Dental Journal found that brushing your teeth before bed is more important than in the morning because less saliva is produced while sleeping, making teeth more prone to plaque buildup.
Making a Habit to Brush Twice a Day
We all know that starting a new habit can be tough, but with a little bit of effort, brushing your teeth twice a day can become a simple part of your daily routine.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Set A Reminder
Use your phone or a calendar to remind yourself to brush twice a day. You can even set reminders for specific times of the day, like first thing in the morning and before bed.
Make It Enjoyable
Choose a toothbrush and toothpaste that you like, and play some music or listen to a podcast while you brush.
Start Small
If you’re not used to brushing twice a day, start by doing it once a day for a week, and then gradually increase to twice a day.
Conclusion
Brushing your teeth twice a day is a simple habit that can make a big difference in your oral health.
It’s an effective way to remove plaque and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Even if you’re not already in the habit of brushing twice a day, now’s the time to start!