As warm weather rolls around, we begin to open our windows and embark on the annual spring cleaning, and most of us tend to start smiling a bit more. But that spring smile may actually not be as fresh as you’d like, especially if you haven’t been taking care of your teeth.
If that sounds like your situation, now is the time to get back on track. Check out this list of spring cleaning tips for your smile.
1. Swap Out That Old Toothbrush
If you’re following a proper oral hygiene routine, you should be using your toothbrush at least twice a day every day, which means eventually it’s going to get worn out. If you want your smile to sparkle this spring, you should toss that old toothbrush and get yourself a fresh set of bristles every three months.
2. Start Flossing
Flossing is one of the most overlooked aspects of oral hygiene, yet it is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Grab some traditional dental floss, some floss picks, or invest in a water flosser, and build a daily habit of keeping your mouth clean and your teeth and gums safe. Most dental problems occur between the teeth so it is important to clean this area daily.
3. Reconsider Your Diet
You might maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine, but it could all be for nothing if your diet is full of food and drinks that are bad for your overall oral health. For example, acids and sugars in the things we eat and drink may wear away your enamel, causing tooth decay. This ultimately could tarnish your perfect smile. You don’t need to eliminate these things from your diet entirely, but it is helpful to moderate the amount of sugary and acidic items that we eat and drink on a daily basis. Consider eating and drinking those foods only at meal time and avoid them between meals.
4. Regular Teeth Cleaning
While brushing, flossing, and watching what you eat and drink can go a long way in protecting your smile, you still need to visit your hygienist at a minimum of every six months, some people more frequently. Schedule an appointment today to spring clean your smile.
Looking to Spring Clean Your Smile?
Contact Piper Family Dentistry right now by calling (727) 548-7100.
Dr. Piper is a General and Cosmetic Dentist who has proudly served Pinellas County since 1993. Both he and his team of professionals provide high quality, gentle dental care in a relaxed, personalized, and caring environment. Treating patients like family sets his practice apart from others.
