The temperatures are slowly rising, evenings are filled with more light, and yards are preparing for their first mow of the season. Spring is right around the corner, and if you’re busy preparing your to-do list, you’re not alone. While everyone is looking to declutter their homes and bring their lawns back to life, you may want to think about a spring cleaning for your mouth, too. Keeping your teeth and gums in optimal shape for the upcoming season is important, especially as you spend more time outside with family and friends. Read on to learn what 4 things you can do to ensure the health and beauty of your smile this spring.
Buy a New Toothbrush
When it comes to swapping out your toothbrush, the standard rule of thumb is to do so every 3-4 months. This prevents bad bacteria from continuing to transfer from your brush to your teeth and ensures frayed bristles are no longer used. Buying a new toothbrush will allow you to start the season with a new and improved way of cleaning your teeth. Not to mention, if you’ve been sick because of the roller coaster temperatures, throwing out your old brush and replacing it with a new one will keep viruses from re-attacking your body.
Schedule a Professional Cleaning
It never hurts to schedule a six-month cleaning at the start of spring. By getting in to see your dentist for a regular dental checkup and cleaning, you can kick off the season the right way. During this visit, your dental team will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and oral cancer, identifying any problem areas and formulating a treatment plan to help you take back your smile. Also, you’ll enjoy a thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist who will remove hardened plaque and tartar before polishing your teeth to give you a fresher, cleaner smile.
Let a Professional Care for Your Dentures
If you are a denture wearer, you’re probably staying on top of your daily brushing and soaking; however, it is often helpful to allow a professional to take your dentures and give them a more advanced cleaning. Bringing your prosthetic to your dentist’s office will allow your team to carefully examine your dentures for any possible cracks or chips as well as ensure they are continuing to fit comfortably within your mouth. Should any problems arise, this is a great time to get them fixed before social gatherings pick back up.
Clean Your Cases
Whether you wear Invisalign clear aligners, a nightguard for bruxism, or a retainer to keep your teeth firmly in place, you likely have a protective case that needs regular cleaning. To avoid a build-up of bad bacteria, make sure to thoroughly scrub these items. Using soap and warm water, you can effectively remove harmful particles and keep your oral devices cleaner and better protected.
Before you throw on your gardening hat and gloves to start planting your first flowers of the season, make sure your smile is ready for spring, too.
About the Author
Dr. Shue Her has more than 10 years of experience working in dentistry and is pleased to help the residents of Gainesville and its surrounding communities achieve healthier, longer-lasting smiles. Completing his doctorate at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, he has advanced training in Chao Pinhole Surgery, All-On-4 implant restorations, and he is certified in oral and IV sedation. Dr. Her is always looking to provide high-quality dentistry as well as valuable patient education to help maintain optimal oral health. If you are looking to take back your smile this spring, visit our website or call (770) 536-6688.