While the phrase conjures images of dusting the furniture and donating old clothes for most people, at Harder Dental Corporation, we picture clean, healthy teeth. Keeping your smile brilliant is not only good for your oral health, but can benefit you overall in both body and mind.
Here are a few tips to make sure your mouth, gums, and teeth are ready to spring forward with the season:
Make sure you’re brushing properly. You should give each tooth at least ten seconds of attention. Brushing your teeth should last about two minutes. If you have trouble telling how long you’ve been brushing, many electric toothbrushes have a built-in timer that will chime to let you know how much longer you have to go.
You should be brushing two or three times a day, after each meal if you can. The longer food residue stays on your teeth, the longer the bacteria in your mouth have to multiply and cause damage such as cavities and gum disease. If you cant brush, try drinking a glass of water or chewing sugar free gum to help clear out food particles and keep away tartar buildup.
Flossing is important too. Plaque can accumulate in places you cant see, like between your teeth. Flossing helps remove debris and will keep cavities to a minimum.
If youre teeth are healthy but you feel that they could use a pick-me-up, consider whitening treatments. Ask your dentist if youre a good candidate for the procedure. The treatment only takes 45 minutes, and significantly changes the shade of your teeth in that time. You can also ask about take-home treatments, which can also give great results and help maintain your teeth against aging, yellowing, and stains.
Speaking of seeing your dentist, be sure to keep up with regular appointments twice a year. Checkups are accompanied by cleanings, in which plaque and tartar are removed. Sometimes you will also receive other treatments to benefit your teeth at these places, including fluoride treatments and irrigation, keeping you in the best of health.
A bright and beautiful smile can boost your self confidence, make you appear more friendly and attractive to others, and is associated with healthy teeth and gums. By following these tips, youll have a spring in your step and a smile on your lips for the whole year.
