Although most patients brush their teeth every day, few of us are really optimizing our routines, so that our smiles stay as clean and healthy as possible. That’s why our Saint Louis dentists have put together this short article; we’re here to help you take your brushing routine from basic to brilliant!
First, let’s consider when, specifically you are brushing your smile. The general recommendation from the American Dental Association is that you brush twice a day, specifically in the morning before you start your day and right before you go to bed. In the morning, you will be giving your smile a clean slate for the day, and before bed you need to clear away all of the plaque and dental debris that has accumulated throughout the day.
The next thing to think about is whether your current toothbrush is right for you. The brush needs to be small enough to reach your back molars. Additionally, the bristles of the brush should be as soft as possible, so as to minimize the risk of enamel deterioration. Your dentist can help you make the right decision if you are unsure about bristle strength.
Finally, make sure that you are swapping your old brushes for new ones on a regular schedule—every three months or so. Toothbrushes become vastly less effective as time goes on, and they may actually harbor bacteria and other contaminants. We all fall into ruts sometimes, and forget to replace dental tools, so try setting a reminder on your phone or make a note of it on your calendar to take the guesswork out of it.
So, what do you think? By implementing just a few small changes into your routine, you can go a long way toward protecting your smile for the future. Get started by giving our Saint Louis dental office a call to schedule a personal consultation!