The first-known use of the term “spring cleaning” came way back in 1841 to describe “thoroughly cleaning” a place. One of the places it could refer to is your mouth. Spring is a great time to spruce things up and start fresh. Your oral health may have been put to the test during the holiday season, so a teeth cleaning could be just what your smile needs. Read on to get some helpful tips on spring cleaning from your dentist in Canton.
Schedule a Spring Cleaning to Benefit Your Dental Health
Especially if your last dental checkup was well before the holiday season, you should consider getting a fresh start with a professional teeth cleaning. Your dental team will polish away stains, remove tartar buildup, and make sure you don’t have any developing oral health concerns. Plus, it’s a great time to ask your dentist in Canton any questions that might have arisen since your last visit.
Is Your Toothbrush Ready for Spring?
The American Dental Association recommends getting a new toothbrush every 3-4 months – or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Instead of an exact replacement, consider upgrading your toothbrush. While firm or medium bristles might make it feel like you’re getting a more thorough cleaning, they can actually do more harm than good. Especially if you brush too hard the result could be loss of enamel or receding gums, so opting for a soft-bristled brush is a wise move.
Also, due to their vibrations or rotating movement, electric toothbrushes are proven to offer a more thorough cleaning than their manual counterparts. This is especially helpful as you get older when your hand and arm may not be as strong as they once were.
Clean Your Toothbrush Holder
Cleaning the area your store your toothbrush is a great way to keep things sanitary. After all, the container where you keep your toothbrush is exposed to the same germs and bacteria as your other bathroom surfaces. Wash it in warm and soapy water, wipe it down with disinfectant, or run it through the dishwasher at least once a week to keep your toothbrush – and your mouth – clean as well.
Take a Look at Expiration Dates
Expiration dates apply to more than the milk in your fridge or the bread on the kitchen counter. Don’t forget that your dental care products have expiration dates, too. Check out your mouthwash and toothpaste to see if they are still current and at maximum effectiveness. If not, this could be a great opportunity to switch up the products you use or at least take a good look at your options when at the store.
Though taking great care of your teeth should be a priority regardless of season, the theme of spring cleaning does offer a great opportunity to upgrade the standing of your mouth just in time for the improvement in the weather and perhaps more friends and family to smile at! Your dentist in Canton is ready to help you do exactly that.
About the Author
Dr. J.D. Robison studied dentistry at Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Detroit Mercy. He has completed the core curriculum at the prestigious Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Studies and has also trained at the Las Vegas Institute. Dr. Robison looks forward to supporting your spring-cleaning efforts with a professional checkup and cleaning which you can schedule for anyone in your family on his website or by calling (734) 453-6320.