Now that spring is here, many people are starting their spring-cleaning projects. They’re checking closets, cabinets, and drawers for junk and litter to toss out. All in all, it’s a good habit to keep, but sometimes it’s forgotten that this cleaning can (and should) apply to the body too.
Truthfully, you’d be better off if you did a spring cleaning on your teeth, not just your home. To that end, here’s a guide from your dentist in Dublin on how to freshen your smile for this fresh, flowery season!
Trash the Old, Get the New
As with any other spring cleaning, the first step is decluttering the old to make way for the new.
For instance, consider your toothbrush. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends getting a new one every three to four months due to its fraying and accumulation of bacteria. Furthermore, it’s best if this new brush has soft bristles — other types can cause enamel loss or receding gums, especially when you brush too hard. You might want to get an electric toothbrush, which uses vibrations or rotating movement to clean more thoroughly than manual brushes. Consider checking in with your dentist for their recommendations on the best models.
It’s also essential to eliminate any expired dental items you’ve kept until now. Are your mouthwash and toothpaste past their labeled expiration dates? If so, chuck them in the trash! Those products lose effectiveness beyond said date and should be replaced with newer, fresher substitutes. On the other hand, you could also switch things up and try using some new brands for a different experience.
Visit Your Local Dentist
The next step would be to see your local dentist for treatment. There’s only so much you can do to clean your teeth on your own, and dental hygienists have tools to reach places where your flosses and toothbrushes can’t. They can thus perform many beneficial procedures, such as:
- A Professional Cleaning: A treatment in which dental practitioners remove any large buildups of plaque and tartar, sources of bacteria known to cause cavities and other oral health concerns.
- Teeth Whitening: A professional treatment that uses a custom bleaching tray to whiten your teeth. It’s initially performed at the dentist’s office, though the dentist will later provide you with a safe and effective take-home kit for personal use.
- Smile Enhancements: Dental procedures that straighten or correct crooked, chipped, cracked, or missing teeth. These can include dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. Discuss possible options with a cosmetic dentist to see which might best benefit you.
Spring cleaning doesn’t just have to refer to home sprucing. Everyone ought to include themselves in the sprucing process, especially their smiles!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck is a passionate dentist based in Dublin, OH, having earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. A member of the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association, he continues to expand his skills through additional training. Dr. Buck also mentors students as a visiting faculty member at Spear Dental Education. He currently practices at Distinctive Smiles and can be reached at his website or by phone at (614)-792-1800.