4 Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Smile

Giving your home space a thorough spring cleaning is a refreshing feeling, especially when you know you’re starting your year off right! But have you also considered how you could update your teeth cleaning routine? You’ll be happy to know that all it takes is a little preventive care to maintain a clean and healthy smile. Read on to learn a few tips for tidying up your dental hygiene!

Tip #1: Check Expiration Dates

You probably check your fridge occasionally for any expired products you need to toss out, but what about your teeth cleaning items? Like your foods and drinks, toothpastes and mouthwashes can also go past their dates and should be thrown away. By keeping your products up-to-date, you can help ensure they’re effective at removing bacteria and debris. You might even consider picking different items for something new!

Tip #2: Get a New Toothbrush

The American Dental Association recommends that people replace their toothbrushes every three to four months. This is because the bristles will wear down or become ragged over time, making them inefficient at scrubbing your teeth. When getting a new one, you could choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel or gums. Additionally, a powered or electric brush can help clean more thoroughly with the extra vibration and rotation movements.

Tip #3: Clean Your Toothbrush Container

Has your toothbrush holder been sitting on the counter for a while? If so, you might want to clean it before using it again. Your toothbrush container is exposed to all the same bacteria on the other bathroom surfaces, and you won’t want these germs to spread to your mouth. To avoid this, try washing it with soap or wiping it with disinfectant once or twice a week to protect your oral health.

Tip #4: Schedule a Dental Visit

The best way to tidy up your dental hygiene is to visit your dentist at least twice a year. Not only will they provide a cleaning and polishing to give your smile a fresh start, but they can also examine your mouth for any developing issues and treat them early on.

Sprucing up your dental hygiene is quite simple, and with your dentist’s help you can ensure your teeth stay in great condition! By speaking with them, you’ll also have the chance to get custom advice on how to make the most of your daily cleaning habits.

About the Author

Dr. Eric Barajas earned his dental doctorate from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry. He pursues continuing education courses to remain updated on the latest techniques and technology. He provides numerous high-quality treatments from dental emergencies to regular checkups and cleanings. If you want to know more about tidying up your dental hygiene, visit his website or call 619-482-7367.