4 Tips how to "Spring" Clean Your Teeth

 

Spring is a season of the year usually associated with new beginnings, cleaning up the house, rebirth of nature, body detox etc., yet this is also a season to dedicate some time for yourself and practice the “spring” cleaning of your teeth every day. You might be wondering what we mean by “spring” cleaning in relation to your oral health. It is most commonly associated with thorough, deep, regular and done in the right way. In addition, battling the bad habits, that would further exacerbate any existing health conditions, is another part that goes hand in hand with oral hygiene. We are sharing with you some tips on how to do the “spring” cleaning right.

Tip #1

Make it a habit to change your toothbrush once in every 3 to 4 months or earlier if the bristles are damaged. Use medium or soft bristle toothbrush to protect the enamel of your teeth and clean the gums as well. One of the most common mistakes is that people wet the toothbrush prior brushing their teeth, which in turn makes the bristles even softer and reduces their abrasive power. Brush twice daily for 2 minutes in circular motion, 30 seconds in each quadrant of the mouth and use tongue scraper to remove the bacteria film. In addition, if you have a cold, replace the toothbrush since there is a possibility to catch the cold again. It is very important to rinse the toothbrush after use and set it in straight position to get dry. Do not place it instantly into a closed compartment.

Tip #2

Do not toss the floss! We do understand that flossing might be annoying or time consuming and frustrating when you cannot reach the wisdom teeth. You may battle this by thinking what can happen to your teeth if you avoid flossing. One third of the tooth surface remains unclean and becomes a pool of harmful bacteria which may progress in tartar formation and when left untreated the latter may progress into periodontal disease. Well, just think of the consequences! It is never worth to lose your teeth too early. If the regular floss is not something you fancy, there are alternatives such as:

•          Waterpik – uses water pressure to remove the food leftovers, it should be used prior brushing your teeth.
•         Waxed floss – it comes in different flavors and it is much easier to use than the traditional one since it glides much easily.
•       Interdental brushes – choose the right size for you, change it regularly and use it before brushing your teeth.

 Tip#3

Choose the right toothpaste and amount for you and your child. It should be rich-in-fluoride, i.e 1350-1500ppm for adults and the right quantity to put on your toothbrush is pea sized. For children, there are toothpastes with different flavors and colors. It is a personal preference which one is used, however the most important is that kids do not swallow it.

Tip#4

Do not postpone or skip the regular dental checkups every 6 months! Better safe than sorry and this in general applies for your overall health. Not only will the dentist clean the plaque on a regular basis and make sure your teeth, gums and tongue are healthy but they will be the first ones to spot the development of severe conditions that will affect your general health. By regular dental checkups, your dentist will preserve your oral and overall health in a long run.

Give us a call and book your "spring" check up today!