Spring is finally here, and that means it’s the perfect time to throw out the unwanted junk your home has accumulated over the past year. However, your abode isn’t the only thing that deserves freshening up. You should also consider giving your smile a spring cleaning! These four easy tips for sprucing up your dental care can set you up for a year of bright, healthy smiles.
1. Get a Brand-New Toothbrush
Can you remember when you started using your current toothbrush? Or, if you have an electric toothbrush, can you recall when you last switched to a new head? If not, then it’s definitely time for a fresh one! Over time, the bristles on a toothbrush become frayed and worn, rendering them not as effective at cleaning your teeth. This means more food particles and bacteria get left behind, increasing your risk of tooth decay.
A good rule of thumb is to buy a new toothbrush (or new brush head) every three to four months. In fact, the changing of the seasons serves as a natural reminder!
2. Clean Your Case
Whether you have a nightguard, clear aligner trays, or a retainer, chances are you brush – or at least rinse – these appliances after you take them out of your mouth. But do you also clean the case you store them in? If not, bacteria could build up in there, spread to your trays, and ultimately wind up in your mouth. Every now and then, give your case a thorough scrub to keep it fresh.
3. Check Your Mouthwash’s Expiration Date
For most people, it’s a no-brainer to take a quick look at the expiration dates for their milk, eggs, and other foods in their kitchen. Get in the habit of regularly doing this for your mouthwash, too. If your mouthwash is past its expiration date, toss it out and replace it with a new one right away.
4. Schedule a Professional Dental Cleaning
When was the last time you visited your dentist in Long Beach? If you can’t remember, then it has definitely been too long! Generally, you should see your dentist every six months for a routine checkup. That way, they can make sure your smile is problem-free, and if not, they can treat any issues in the early stages. Plus, the hygienist can perform a professional teeth cleaning to clear away built-up plaque and leave your smile looking and feeling fresh!
Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to tidy up your smile in addition to your place of living. With these tips, you can start the new season off on the right foot!
About the Practice
At Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth, we aim to stop oral health problems in their tracks by partnering with our patients and educating them on proper smile care. Our skilled team – which includes a general dentist, a pediatric dentist, and an orthodontist – will go above and beyond to ensure that every member of your family has the healthiest smile possible. To schedule your spring cleaning dental visit, you can contact us via our website or by phone at (516) 517-0331.