Spring Cleaning: Don’t Forget Your Teeth

If you’re like most people, the arrival of the spring season signals the beginning of a whole new batch of cleaning projects. While you’re decluttering your garage or trying to make sense of that horrific front closet, be sure not to overlook one of the most important cleaning projects you can undertake: Your teeth! Below are some practical tips to help you ensure that you’re keeping your teeth in tip-top shape for the spring season and beyond.

1. Brush Your Teeth at Least Twice a Day

Brushing twice a day will keep the plaque and bacteria away. Most people choose to brush once in the morning and once at night, but there’s nothing wrong with brushing right after your meals as well!

2. Floss on a Regular Basis

While brushing is absolutely essential to your oral health, it’s not enough to keep bacteria from accumulating in those hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth. If left unchecked, this bacteria will begin to produce acid, which can irritate your gums, cause cavities, and ultimately lead to gum disease (gingivitis). Flossing is the only way to reach those small spaces where bacteria love to hang out (and multiply). While dental floss made from nylon, Teflon or Gore-Tex string is perhaps the most common type of flossing instrument used, many people find it difficult to work with and opt for water flossing tools such as the Waterpik instead. For the uninitiated, a water flosser is basically a handheld device that shoots a concentrated stream of water in pulsating intervals. When aimed at the gum line or between the teeth, this device can remove stubborn food particles and/or plaque that your toothbrush might have missed. By flossing on a daily basis, you can fortify your oral health that much more, and stave off the bacterial buildup that often leads to more serious dental problems down the road.

3. Replace Your Toothbrush

Any object that you use on a daily basis is going to be subject to a certain amount of wear and tear, and your toothbrush is no exception. If your current toothbrush has frayed bristles or other signs of wear, it’s probably time for a replacement. According to the American Dental Association, it’s best to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

4. Schedule a Professional Cleaning

Without question, this is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain good oral health. Even if you brush and floss on a daily basis, it’s still very difficult to fully clean plaque and tartar build-up below the gum line. A professional hygienist has the tools and skill to perform a deep clean that will ensure that those hidden areas below the gum line are thoroughly taken care of. Not only that, but your dental professional will also perform a comprehensive oral exam and advise you if they detect any potential problems. Scheduling a professional cleaning every six months is a great way to stay proactive about your oral health, and prevent troublesome dental issues from developing down the line.

If you’re ready to add oral health to your spring cleaning list, be sure to visit the team at West Chester Dental Group for your next routine cleaning. Our friendly staff of professionals will make sure that you receive the ultimate dental experience. Contact us today to schedule your “spring cleaning” appointment!