With March just around the corner, you may be looking forward to the longer, warmer days of spring. Plenty of people take advantage of the sunnier days this time of year and indulge in some deep cleaning to clear their homes of grime and clutter.
But don’t forget that your house isn’t the only place where unhealthy germs can live. Bacteria in your mouth can contribute to oral concerns, such as cavities or gum disease, if you don’t take the proper precautions. Continue reading to learn 3 tips to enhance your dental hygiene routine and safeguard your smile this season!
Tip #1: Pick a New Toothbrush
Did you know that the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months? This is because the bristles eventually wear down and become less effective. Not only that, but unwanted germs can gather in frayed bristles and be reintroduced into your mouth during your next cleaning.
Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to find a new toothbrush. Many stores and pharmacies carry a variety of brands and options so that you can find something to suit your needs. For instance, if you have sensitive gums, you might choose something with softer bristles to gently remove plaque and bacteria. You might also consider switching to an electric brush, which sources estimate may remove up to 21% more plaque!
Tip #2: Try an Oral Irrigator
Many people assume that if they brush their teeth for two minutes both morning and night, there’s no need to floss. However, scrubbing alone only removes an estimated 50% to 60% of residue buildup; flossing is required to clear the remaining 40% to 50%. But you’re not alone if you avoid this step in your hygiene routine because you don’t enjoy the sensation of sliding the glossy string below your gumline.
If you’re looking for additional ways to cleanse your grin this spring, you might invest in an oral irrigator, also known as a water flosser. This device uses a pressurized stream of water to rinse away germs, leftover food, and plaque, which many consider more comfortable than traditional flossing.
Tip #3: Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning
Finally, another simple yet effective way to ensure you start your spring with a happy, healthy smile is to schedule a checkup and professional cleaning with your dentist. This allows them to monitor your condition and treat any areas of concern, like thinning enamel or swollen gums, that might have developed this past winter. Then, they’ll thoroughly scrub your teeth with professional-grade equipment to prevent oral issues and freshen your breath, and polish your enamel to a shine.
Implementing one or more of these helpful tips can help you maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums all season long!
Meet the Author
Dr. Todd Balington has 20 years of experience helping people of all ages improve their daily lives by enhancing their smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, and today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services, including routine preventive care, to meet your family’s oral healthcare needs conveniently under one roof. He takes the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals, then uses advanced technology to personalize treatment plans to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (940) 383-3300.