Spring is a lovely time of year, and many people welcome it by taking some time to give their house or place of business a thorough cleaning. While it’s a great idea to get rid of unused stuff and deep-clean all the nooks and crannies in your home, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take the opportunity to get your oral hygiene routine up to par. Here are a few ways to give your teeth a spring cleaning so you can enjoy them for as long as possible.
Your Toothbrush Could Maybe Use an Upgrade
While the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three or four months or whenever the bristles become frayed, many people put off getting a new one for much longer than they should. Why not treat yourself to a new toothbrush when spring comes around? You can even consider upgrading your dental utensil in ways like:
- Getting a toothbrush with softer bristles: While you might think firm or medium bristles would be best for eliminating plaque and food debris, they can harm your enamel or gum tissue. Choose a toothbrush with softer bristles for a gentle but thorough cleaning.
- Choosing modern technology: Electric toothbrushes have been proven to be superior cleaning utensils to manual brushes, and the way they rotate or vibrate can make oral hygiene much easier for people with limited mobility. Ask your dentist about what type of electric toothbrush would be best for you.
Wash Your Toothbrush Holder
Your toothbrush holder provides the valuable service of holding your brush in an upright position, inhibiting bacterial growth by allowing it to dry out faster. However, many people neglect to consider the bacteria and food debris that can build up on their toothbrush holders. Take some time to wash yours with soap and hot water or run it through the dishwasher. It’s a great idea to get into the habit of cleaning your toothbrush holder once or twice a week.
Schedule a Dental Exam
The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist at least twice a year for routine exams and cleanings. This allows a trained dental professional to assess the health of your mouth, clean any harmful buildup, recommend better oral hygiene measures, and correct any problems they find in their early stages. This can prevent painful oral infections as well as the need for expensive restorative work.
Spring is a great time to focus on improving your oral hygiene. By practicing excellent oral health habits, you can keep your smile in great shape for life.
About the Practice
Coats Dental Group delivers the finest oral health services available in Longmont, CO. Led by Drs. Brian and Kevin Coats, the staff is dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives effective treatments in a clean and friendly environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule a spring dental appointment, contact the office online or dial (303) 776-4090.