Spring is a time for renewal and growth, and that includes your smile. Just as you’re decluttering your home and getting ready for warmer weather, it’s a good time to give your teeth a little spring cleaning. Continue reading on to learn about five ways that you can do some spring cleaning for your beam to promote a healthy, happy smile.
#1: Floss Your Teeth
Flossing is just as important as brushing, but many people don’t do it. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. It’s especially important to floss before bed, as this will help remove any plaque that has built up during the day, therefore lowering your risk of developing oral health issues.
#2: Upgrade Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months. If the bristles are frayed before that time, this may be a sign that you’re brushing your teeth too hard. It’s also important to replace it after you recover from an illness. A new toothbrush will help properly remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, keeping them healthy and preventing cavities. If you use a traditional toothbrush, you can also consider switching to an electric one to remove plaque even more effectively.
#3: Clean Your Toothbrush Holder
Although toothbrush holders are covered in germs, many people forget to clean them. To kill the germs and bacteria, it’s recommended to clean your toothbrush holder at least once each week to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Some ways to do this include:
- Use a dishwasher or a disinfectant spray
- Use a mild soap and water to clean the exterior of the holder
- Soak the holder in a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water for 30 minutes
- Rinse the holder thoroughly after cleaning
#4: Schedule a Professional Teeth Cleaning
It is strongly recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning. During these visits, your smile will be deep cleaned to remove tartar and plaque buildup from your teeth, which will help prevent cavities. Your dentist will also examine your oral cavity for any problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Early detection is key to treating oral health problems before they get worse and preventing new ones from forming.
#5: Cut Out Bad Habits
If you smoke cigarettes, use other tobacco products, excessively drink alcohol, or eat a lot of sugary, carb-heavy, or acidic foods, consider quitting these bad habits. They can do a lot of harm to your oral health, including increasing your chances of cavities, gum disease, and dry mouth. Smoking also makes you more likely to develop several kinds of cancer, including oral cancer.
About the Practice
Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry can help you keep your smile healthy with preventive checkups and cleanings. They also offer helpful tips on how to reduce your intake of foods and drinks that can harm your smile and can offer you resources on how to quit bad habits, such as smoking. To schedule an appointment with Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry or to learn more about their services, visit their website or call their office at (904) 272-0800.