Spring has finally arrived—the birds are chirping, the insects are buzzing, Alabama’s yearly yellow tsunami of pollen is already on the horizon (and the hood of your car). Now, of course, is also the time of year that we dust off our work clothes and get ready to freshen up the caves we’ve been hibernating in all winter. And though we surely hope you haven’t let your dental care routine go the way of your garage and closet upkeep through the cold months, here are a few tools and tips to help you tackle that plaque and freshen up your smile.
Replace that Toothbrush!
Even the ancient Egyptians knew the importance of this basic bathroom staple, fraying and chewing the ends of twigs since 3000 B.C. But you should make sure that your personal toothbrush isn’t ancient, which it will be after about three months (or sooner, if the bristles are obviously frayed). Don’t skip the medicine cabinet when you clean up this season—it’s probably time to switch out!
Get the Nooks and Crannies
If you’re looking for an easy way to detail your smile, you may consider an interdental brush. While not necessarily a replacement for regular flossing, these small, flexible brushes can be a refreshing addition to your daily regimen. Available in a range of sizes, these brushes can help you reach tight or awkward spots between teeth. Plus, they can be extremely helpful for shining up braces and other orthodontic appliances.
Don’t Forget the Appliances
If you wear dentures, a retainer, a mouthguard, or any other removable dental appliance, make sure that you brush them regularly. A periodic soak in a gentle cleansing solution is always advisable, but just like your kitchen appliances, you don’t want to forget to take routine care of these devices to fight off the nasty bacteria that can form between deep-cleanings.
Let Your Water Work for You
If you use a home water purifier, all this cleaning might remind you to change the filter out. While you’re at it, make sure you’re using one that doesn’t filter out fluoride. Fluoride is important for preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel, and making sure you don’t filter it out of your tap water—in addition to using a fluoride toothpaste—is a great way to make sure your teeth stay healthy and strong.
These are just a few tips to get you started. As always, make sure you’re current on your regular dentist and orthodontist visits. And if you’re feeling like it’s time to a jump start on a new smile this season, call Birmingham Orthodontics for a free consultation today.
At Birmingham Orthodontics, our mission is simple: we create smiles. Not only do we straighten the crooked grin, fix the bite, and adjust the jaw, we also brighten yearbooks, help young people come to like their looks, and give adults the confidence they have wanted for a long, long time. We also believe in our staff. Our culture of continuous learning has allowed us to host monthly training sessions for each team and bring in leading industry consultants to help keep us ahead of the curve. Contact us for a free consultation, or any questions you might have.
