In the cold winter months, it’s all too easy to let chores pile up, which is why so many people make it a point to do some spring cleaning as temperatures start to warm up. As it turns out, there’s a lot to be said for doing the same thing for your teeth.
Between cold weather, the holiday season, and half-off Valentine’s chocolates, there’s usually a lot to undo come spring if you’re interested in bettering your oral health. Here are a few things you might do if you want to spruce up your smile.
Swap Out Your Toothbrush
In case you aren’t aware, dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three or four months. After some time, toothbrushes tend to fray and become less effective at cleaning teeth, as well as gradually collecting bacteria that build up on the brush over time. This spring, it may be a good idea to enhance your dental hygiene by making sure the tools you use are in the best shape that they can be.
Clean Out Your Toothbrush Holder
Even if you have a brand-new toothbrush ready to go, it doesn’t necessarily do you any good if you’re putting it in precisely the same spot as your old one. A dingy, unhygienic toothbrush holder allows for the buildup and spread of bacteria, not just from your old brush, but from anything else that happens in your bathroom.
As a part of your spring cleaning, take the time to clean your toothbrush holder with warm, soapy water.
Schedule a Professional Cleaning
No matter how good you are with your dental hygiene, the fact is that there are likely places in the mouth that you aren’t able to clean sufficiently on your own. Plaque and tartar can easily build up in these areas, contributing to gum disease and tooth decay.
For this reason, it’s important to visit your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning. They’ll be able to make use of specialized tools that can clean tartar from between the teeth, along the gums, and toward the back of the mouth. If you want to deep clean your smile this spring, talking to a professional is an excellent way to go.
About Our Practice
At Collinsville Dental Associates, we are proud to have spent the last 30 years helping our community smile its brightest. We have a team of five dedicated dentists on staff, ensuring that we not only have the expertise necessary to help you with any problem you could have, but that you will be able to benefit from one-on-one attention from an expert who will empathize with you.
If you have any questions about the benefits of preventive care, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (276) 647-1494.