With Spring in the air, it is time to consider what must be done in order to give yourself a fresh, clean start to the new season. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to prioritize your dental health. Just as your home benefits from this cleaning season, your dental health can too. At Cleveland Smile Center, we offer professional dental cleanings to optimize your oral health. So, what can you do at home to maintain a clean, healthy smile in between routine cleanings?
1. Replace Your Toothbrush (or electric toothbrush head)
The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. As the bristles become worn, they are more prone to bacterial or fungal growth. Also, research shows that worn bristles are less effective in removing plaque.
2. Brush Twice Daily
The bacteria that are in our mouth are continuously forming plaque. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day helps to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Tartar can only be removed from a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist.
3. Flossing Once Daily
Brushing alone is not enough for our oral health. Flossing removes plaque between the teeth where our toothbrush cannot reach. There are many different options when it comes to cleaning between the teeth including regular floss, water flossing, floss picks, and interdental brushes. Finding a flossing method that works best for you is a great start to incorporating it into your daily routine.
And make sure to come visit the team at Cleveland Smile Center for your regular checkups.