Spring is a great time to start fresh and reset your routine, especially when it comes to your oral health habits. Here are a few tips and reminders of what proper oral health home care involves from your team at Dentistry @ University Pointe.
Brush for the Full Two Minutes
Most people brush for less time than they think. Two minutes twice daily is the standard recommendation, but it requires deliberate effort.
A timer or electric toothbrush with a built-in interval can help. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, and replace your brush every three to four months or sooner if it has frayed bristles.
Don't Skip Flossing
Brushing cleans the surfaces of teeth but doesn't reach the spaces between them. Flossing once a day removes food and plaque from those areas before it hardens into tartar. If you have difficulty cleaning with floss around dental work, use a floss threader or a water flosser.
Watch What You Drink
Sugary and acidic drinks, including soda, sports drinks, and fruit juice, become more common as we enter warmer months. They are also the worst for your oral health because they can lead to enamel erosion and tooth decay.
Water is your best bet for staying hydrating while supporting good oral health habits. If you do drink acidic beverages, using a straw reduces direct contact with tooth surfaces.
Schedule Your Routine Dental Care
Good habits at home work best when you pair them with regular professional care. Twice-yearly preventive appointments allow your dentist to catch developing issues early and remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone can't address.
If you're overdue for a checkup, spring is a good time to get back on track. Call Dentistry @ University Pointe in West Chester, OH, to schedule your next cleaning and exam.