5 Ways to Maintain a Healthy Smile
It’s spring — that time of year when we throw open our windows for a breath of fresh air. We traditionally shake off the winter and greet the new season with with a flurry of tidying and scrubbing. You know, spring cleaning!
Just as you prepare your home with a checklist of chores, don’t forget to spring clean your smile too.
Why? Maintaining healthy teeth and gums ensures proper function (for chewing and talking), keeps bacteria under control, and, as mentioned by the Mayo Clinic, affects overall health too.
To help you tidy up your teeth, San Mateo Center for Cosmetic Dentistry offers this checklist of oral health chores:
Start with a Clean Slate
Just as you’re dusting your baseboards and purging your closets to get rid of excess clutter, having your teeth professionally cleaned also removes the build-up of plaque that leads to decay, gum disease, and bad breath. The dentist will also examine for existing cavities, missing fillings, or cracks that need repair. For some extra springtime sparkle, why not consider teeth whitening too!
Commit to a Daily Routine
Now that your teeth are refreshed and sparkling, make the commitment to keep them that way! Set aside time both morning and night to brush with a fluoride toothpaste — and don’t forget to floss. We’re happy to show you the most effective ways to brush and floss; if you’re going to take the time to care for yourself diligently, we want to make sure you’re using proper technique!
Replace Your Toothbrush
Not only do bristles fray and wear out, your toothbrush can also harbor bacteria. Now that your teeth are nice and clean, it’s the perfect time to replace your weathered toothbrush with a brand new one.</>
Don’t Forget Your Dental Appliances
Now is also the time to ensure that any dental appliance you may wear, such as dentures, a night guard, or Invisalign clear braces, are free of debris. Give them a good soak and scrub to remove grime — and incorporate this into your daily routine.
Shelve the Sugar
If you love to indulge in sugary snacks and beverages, consider changing your lifestyle to include healthier options. Sugar is a major culprit in the growth of bacteria and decay, and reducing the amount you consume is beneficial in so many ways, not just for your oral health. Opt for sparkling water infused with lemon rather than soda, or choose snacks like raw veggies. We know that sweets are hard to walk away from, but the health benefits are worth the work.
Ready to Spring Clean Your Smile?
Our cosmetic dental office in San Mateo offers services that create sparkling, fresh smiles. In addition to teeth whitening and Invisalign, our care team repairs imperfections with crowns, veneers, implants and more.
Contact us when it’s time for your smile spring cleaning!