Summer can bring changes to your usual routine. But disruption does not have to be a bad thing. You can use the summer months to re-evaluate your current habits and refresh them with new ones. This approach can prove especially useful if you need to revamp your oral hygiene regimen.
If you notice you skip brushing your teeth or flossing, you could put your smile in serious danger. Lingering plaque on your teeth due to improper oral hygiene will eat away at your dental structure, making the teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay and other issues.
But getting oral hygiene back on track is not always easy. You can consult with your dentist to optimize your at-home oral healthcare and keep your smile looking and feeling its best. Check out tips provided by your dentist to help you enhance your oral hygiene this summer when you read on.
Use Reminders to Complete Oral Hygiene
Is forgetting to brush your teeth impeding your ability to maintain good oral health? Try setting reminders on your cell phone to alert you of when it is time to brush your teeth and floss.
You should brush your teeth twice per day, mornings and evenings, to remove plaque and other residues from your smile in a timely fashion. You must floss each day as well, although the timing may vary depending on your preferences.
Many people can better remember to complete oral hygiene when they have visual cues. Try storing your toothbrush, toothpaste, and other oral hygiene supplies on the bathroom sink or other visible location. If you see these items, you can feel more motivated to use them and complete oral hygiene on time.
Hone Your Oral Hygiene Techniques
You might miss out on crucial oral hygiene benefits if you do not floss or brush with proper technique. Consider your current oral hygiene habits and check that you practice them in the best way.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Then gently brush in small circles across every surface of your teeth. Do not skip brushing your tongue.
Floss your teeth by inserting the string floss between the teeth. Carefully rub it up and down against each side of the teeth, and do this for every tooth in your smile. Skipping any of these steps might leave harmful residues on your teeth that can hurt your dental health.
Attend a Dental Check-Up
Daily oral hygiene completed on your own at home is crucial to caring for your smile. But if you feel unsure of how to get oral hygiene habits back on track, your dentist can help.
Patients of all ages need routine care from a dentist at least twice per year. These check-up appointments include professional teeth cleaning and oral exams. The dentist removes plaque and tartar that toothbrushes and floss might miss on the smile.
You can feel more encouraged to stick to your oral hygiene routine when you have a clean slate to work from. With a beautifully clean smile courtesy of your dentist, you can feel inspired to keep it this clean on your own.
Discover more advice regarding oral hygiene when you give your dentist a call. Book your routine dental check-up today by contacting our front office staff.