When is the last time you brushed inside your cheeks?
Every dental professional will advise patients to brush twice a day and floss daily. However, it is important to clean every surface of the mouth – such as the palate, the surface of the tongue, and the insides of the cheeks. Harmful bacteria reside in every part of the mouth, so a thorough cleaning is vital to prevent problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis. Cleaning the inside of the cheeks is part of good oral health care, but it is important to not overdo it as damaging the inner side of the cheeks can cause additional oral care problems.
How To Cleanse The Cheeks
Since the cheeks are far softer and vulnerable than teeth, the best way to cleanse cheeks is to use mouthwash instead of a toothbrush. Mouthwash will also reach areas inside of bite marks and similar injuries. When patients must use a toothbrush to clean the inside of the cheeks, patients should use soft-bristled toothbrushes and gently brush the cheeks; being aggressive and scraping the insides of the cheeks will damage the area, possibly causing bleeding and other problems.
Why Do We Brush The Teeth But Not The Cheeks?
Many surfaces in our body shed their outer layers and replace them throughout the course of the day. Cheeks are one of the surfaces that sheds and regenerates during the day. Teeth, however, are more permanent; despite the phenomenon of remineralization, a tooth that has been stripped of its enamel is permanently damaged. This is a stark contrast to the cheek tissue, which routinely reforms. This is why we focus more on cleansing the teeth and let mouthwash suffice for the cheeks.
If you have questions or concerns about your oral care regimen, contact our office for a consultation. We can give you advice and techniques that will help you take care of your mouth.
