Spring is the perfect time to freshen up not just your home, but also your dental care routine. As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, why not embrace a healthier smile by revamping your oral hygiene habits?
While we tend to make New Year’s resolutions and other annual goals in the winter, spring is a time of action: if we resolved to get more organized, improve our health, or take on any sort of home improvement projects back in January, there’s a good chance now is when most of us are really going to start buckling down and making an effort to accomplish that goal.
What else can you include in your spring cleaning?
When we think of spring cleaning, our minds often drift to dusting shelves, clearing out closets, and scrubbing windows. However, this annual tradition can also extend to areas of our lives that might not immediately come to mind, such as digital decluttering and refreshing our meal plans.
Spring cleaning is also a perfect opportunity to revitalize your oral health habits. Just like your home, your oral hygiene routine can benefit from a thorough review and update. Consider replacing your toothbrush or toothbrush head if it's been more than three months, and ensure your dental floss and mouthwash are up to date. Taking these simple steps can help remove plaque more effectively and contribute to a brighter, healthier smile, giving you another reason to feel refreshed and renewed this spring.
How to “spring clean” your mouth
Sprucing up your oral health routine can be a breeze, but it does take a bit of willpower, especially if your habits could use a little work. Check out this 6-step guide to keeping your smile in top shape this spring:
- Swap Out Your Toothbrush - A lot of people forget that toothbrushes need to be replaced every 3-4 months. Doing this makes sure you've got strong bristles and a fresh tool to keep your mouth happy and clean.
- Find a Toothpaste You Love- With tons of toothpaste options out there, most are pretty similar. As long as they meet the FDA's standards, they should do the trick. Depending on what you need, look for features like fluoride, tartar control, whitening, or moisturizing.
- Master Flossing (or Use a Flossing Tool)- Flossing is one of those things we think we know how to do, but often don’t get right. Whether you go for traditional floss or a fancy gadget, pick something you'll stick with every day.
- Meet the Tongue Scraper- This underrated tool can do wonders for fighting bad breath and other issues. Plus, tongue scraping is a great way to give your mouth a "spring cleaning."
- Choose an Antibacterial Mouthwash You Enjoy- Mouthwash can't replace brushing or flossing, but it’s a handy backup when you’re in a rush. Pick a mouthwash that’s good for you, and avoid ones with sweeteners or dyes.
- Book Both of Your Yearly Dental Checkups- This step keeps you accountable for your oral health. By scheduling both dentist visits for the year (one now and another in six months), you're committing to your new habits. Don’t let costs or minor hassles stop you; a dental savings card can help you save.
Achieving a radiant smile in time to enjoy the vibrant spring blooms and delightful weather is easier than you might think. By following these six steps, you'll feel refreshed and well on your way to perfecting your smile. Remember, the key to maintaining excellent oral health lies in dedication and consistency, which not only leads to a healthier smile but also boosts your overall well-being.