Brush your teeth for about two minutes, twice a day! The optimal times are last thing before bed and at least one other time each day.
Optimal Brushing Times
Many sources recommend brushing twice daily. The most crucial time is right before sleep. This removes food particles and plaque that have accumulated throughout the day, minimizing the time bacteria have to attack your enamel overnight. The other brushing session can be in the morning, ideally before breakfast.
- Before Bed (Most Important): This removes overnight plaque buildup, protecting your teeth while you sleep.
- Morning: Brushing before breakfast allows you to remove the bacteria that have accumulated overnight before consuming breakfast, potentially reducing the impact of acidic foods or drinks on your teeth.
Considerations for Optimal Brushing
- After Eating: While brushing twice daily is key, waiting around 30 minutes after eating before brushing can be beneficial. This allows saliva to help neutralize acids and start the remineralization process of your tooth enamel. Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: The American Dental Association recommends waiting at least 60 minutes after consuming acidic foods or drinks before brushing your teeth. This allows for enamel remineralization.
Why Brushing Twice a Day Matters
Brushing helps remove plaque, a transparent layer of bacteria that coats teeth, and prevents tooth decay and gum disease. Using fluoride toothpaste enhances this protection.