Billions of Reasons to Brush

Billions Reasons To Brush

Would you like to turn 20 billion into 100 billion in only one day? Sure, that would be great if we were talking about money but, in this case, we’re referring to how rapidly oral bacteria multiply in your mouth. Researchers think there are at least 20 billion bacteria in your mouth. Using that math, if you skip brushing your teeth just one day, you would have 100 billion bacteria living in your mouth!

We all know the excuse: “But I’m too busy to brush as often as I should!” It’s becoming clearer that oral bacteria have an impact on your oral health as well as your overall health. We know that oral bacteria can:

1. Travel to the heart and cause a heart attack.
2. Travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
3. Create oral infections that make it difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar.

So, it just makes sense to take good care of your teeth. How can you maintain your busy lifestyle and protect your oral health, heart and brain? It just takes a little planning. Some helpful tips include:

1. Keeping a disposable, waterless, pre-pasted toothbrush in your desk, briefcase or gym bag.
2. Using Floss picks - disposable, stretched floss on plastic holders.
3. Keeping a spare toothbrush at work or in your car.
4. Stow a germ-killing oral rinse in your handbag or backpack.

Another tip is, after you eat, chew gum that contains xylitol. And, by all means, keep those regular bi-yearly hygiene appointments!