Using Spring Cleaning to Brighten Your Smile
With winter on its way out, spring is steadily approaching and if you a big fan of spring cleaning, now is the time to sweep out the old, refresh what’s left, and welcome in the new! Springtime is the perfect time for letting fresh air in; everyone is ready for a lighter, vibrant energy and renewed vigor after plodding through the heavy, slower days of winter. And as part of this renewal, your mouth is ready for a refreshing dental cleaning.
Time for That Checkup
Just as you sweep out the old junk from your home and life during spring cleaning, we will sweep your teeth clear of unwanted dental junk. We will scrub off all sticky plaque along with tartar (hardened plaque), and any oral debris left behind from the food you eat. The result will leave you with smoother, cleaner, and whiter teeth. To remove plaque and tartar, we will include scaling and polishing because you can’t remove hardened plaque at home. Tartar removal requires special dental tools, and without this procedure tartar can attack the gums, inviting gum disease. If you need added protection in between dental cleanings, you can opt for a fluoride treatment. Your checkup will also include checking for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and any other issues that benefit from early intervention.
Tips to Spruce up Your Smile:
Sunblock
Cold sores can be triggered by exposure to the sun so be sure to use a SPF15 or higher to stop an attack.
Hydrate
As warmer weather comes along, stay hydrated with plenty of water, and if you like soda, limit your teeth’s exposure to acids by drinking with a straw to lower the acidic effect in your mouth.
Nutrition
For healthier teeth and gums, consume a diet rich in vitamins and minerals to help ward off gum disease.
Floss
Plaque builds up under the gums just like on the surface of the teeth, and requires regular removal with daily flossing. Spring is a good time to make flossing part of your daily routine to prevent the ravages of periodontal disease as much as possible.
Toothbrush
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your old toothbrush every 3-4 months, and even sooner if the bristles are frayed. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes to get the most from your brushing.
Smoking Cessation
It has been proven that smokers not only do smokers lose more teeth than non-smokers, smoking also is a factor in oral cancer, so use your revitalizing spring energy to kick the smoking habit for a healthier mouth.
If it is time for your spring cleaning, give Dr. Wynatte Chu’s team a call at our location nearest you, and let us help you brighten your smile!