Should you stick with the same oral care routine until your dentist identifies a problem with your smile? The right approach to dental hygiene can be important for your long-term well-being. In fact, you can actually protect your general health by effectively caring for your smile. One thing to be aware of is that changes in your life can may interfere with your natural resistance to dental decay. It is also possible for a person to fall short of their goal for preventive care without realizing it. Checking on your current routine, and looking for improvements, can help you stay safe against tooth decay and gum disease over time. If you are unsure your efforts are enough, you can also talk about your current strategy with your Rochester, MN dentist during your next dental exam.
Check On How Long It Takes You To Brush
Have you been giving yourself enough time to thoroughly brush your teeth? If you want to make sure every area receives attention, give yourself at least two minutes to work the bristles over every area of your smile. Timing yourself while you brush can help you determine how close you are to this mark currently. If your typical session is under two minutes, you should work on taking more time to make sure every area of your smile is protected!
Replace Your Toothbrush After Three Months
The effectiveness of your routine can change, even if you go through the same steps as always, if you are using an older brush. As the bristles wear down, it can become more difficult for them to effectively clear away plaque and food debris. Replace a brush after three months so that you continue to enjoy quality care. You should also make a habit of looking at the bristles before you clean your teeth. If they start to appear worn or frayed before three months have passed, consider picking up a replacement early.
Turn Flossing Into An Everyday Habit
People sometimes feel confident in their oral care routine because they brush regularly, and because they generally make smart diet choices. What they overlook is the importance of flossing! When you floss, you clean spaces between teeth that are difficult to protect with brushing alone. Over time, this can lead to the formation of plaque deposits, and eventually tartar. Once tartar is present, you can face a heightened threat for gum disease as well as cavities that require dental fillings or dental crowns.
Discuss Your Oral Hygiene Routine At Our Rochester, MN Dentist’s Office
Our Rochester, MN dentist’s office has experience caring for patients, and we are prepared to help individuals who want to know how they can take better care of their teeth at home. To find out more about our services, call Calcagno Cosmetic And Family Dentistry at (507) 281-3659.
