The official start of the summer season is almost here! You already have your warm weather clothes unpacked, and you’re ready for all of your outdoor summer activities. Now is the time to make sure your dental hygiene routine is ready, too. Warmer temperatures can lead to dehydration, which can lead to a dry mouth. A dry mouth can cause bacteria to build up in your mouth, requiring extra attention to your dental health. Here are some useful dental hygiene tips to get your summer started right – and you can use these tips all year round!
Toothbrush Tips
- Check your toothbrush for discoloration or fraying of the bristles. If you notice either of these two things, it’s time for a new one. Regardless of the condition, your toothbrush needs replacing about every three months – sooner, if it appears worn.
- When replacing your toothbrush, make sure your bristles aren’t too hard. The American Dental Association suggests that everyone use a soft-bristled brush. This helps avoid damaging your teeth and your delicate gums when brushing.
- Choose a comfortable toothbrush that feels good in your hand. After all, you will be using it every day! Make sure you choose a brush that is easy for you to maneuver.
- Before each use, your toothbrush needs to be dry and clean. This means after every use, rinse your brush thoroughly and place it in an upright position to ensure that it gets completely dry.
Brushing Tips
- The two-minute rule for brushing is great – as long as your teeth are getting a thorough cleaning. You need to brush your teeth for however long it takes to get them clean. This number can vary from person to person. The important thing is to take your time to ensure a deep clean.
- When brushing, keep your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Brush in a downward motion for the top teeth and in an upward motion for the bottom teeth. This helps to push the plaque away from your gums, rather than pushing it into your gums. You can also brush in a small, circular motion on each tooth.
- Each time you brush your teeth, choose a different location to get started. This means one day, you can start on the bottom at the back. Then, the next day, start at the top in the front. Changing up your brushing routine helps to ensure that all areas get a complete cleaning.
- Don’t brush too hard. Be gentle while you brush because your teeth may seem to be tough as nails, but they aren’t. The enamel is comprised of tiny rods, similar to glass, that can break when brushing is too forceful.
- Brush everywhere – the insides of your teeth, the outsides of your teeth, and your tongue.
- Rinse well after brushing to flush away the loosened particles. Try to use a mouthwash after brushing to thoroughly rinse away the gunk, but you can use only water if that is the only thing available.
