There’s a strange paradox when it comes to routines. When you’re first trying to implement them, you’re pretty thorough. Maybe you even make a list so you don’t forget the finer details. But as you grow more comfortable and confident with your new habit, it’s easy to breeze past checklists or leave out a step. Over time, these small flubs can become so ingrained that forgetting them is almost part of your routine!
Oral hygiene is no different in that regard. Keep reading to find out if you’re forgetting one of these four basics.
#1. Do You Brush Your Tongue?
Bacteria collects on your tongue the same way it does your teeth. If you pay close attention, you might even notice some visible differences in a frequently brushed tongue versus a neglected one. The real problem, though, can come when tongue bacteria is spread through the rest of your mouth via contact.
Make sure your tastebuds stay squeaky-clean by simply brushing them with your toothbrush. Some brushes have tongue-scrapers on the back of the head, which is more effective than using bristles.
#2. When Was the Last Time You Bought a New Toothbrush?
Granted, some toothbrushes can go longer before they become inefficient. Nowadays you can even buy fancy ones that come with removable heads and home cleaners. But if you have a plain ‘ol model, traditional or electric or otherwise, replace it every three to four months.
Unless the bristles looked especially frayed. In that case, make the switch promptly. A blunt toothbrush is about as useful for your oral hygiene as a butter knife is for eating steak.
#3. Are You Rinsing with Mouthwash or Warm Water?
Mouthwash is often considered optional. In some ways, that’s true. However, a good mouthwash solution can help you rinse out any bacteria you might have missed when brushing or flossing. They can also contain other agents to help protect your teeth from things like gum disease.
If you don’t prefer mouthwash, swish around your toothpaste and rinse with warm water instead. Water can also dislodge loose bacteria. Giving your toothpaste a swish before spitting it out helps coat your teeth with fluoride more thoroughly. To be extra-sure you removed bacteria from tricky dental nooks and crannies, pick up a water-flosser. They’re gentle and an awesome floss alternative.
#4. Did You Visit Your Dentist? Twice?
Life gets busy. When you already have a flood of other appointments on your schedule, it can be easy to procrastinate your dental checkup. However, dentists recommend visiting biannually for a reason. During these visits, they’ll provide the most thorough cleaning possible, and will examine your teeth for potential complications like tooth decay or gum disease.
Remember that it’s already the middle of the year! If a dental visit is the habit you’ve forgotten about, you’ll want to schedule an appointment sooner than later.
About the Author
Dr. Haiwen Zhang puts his patients and their oral health first. This is why he emphasizes personalized care solutions that work for you, your schedule, and your unique oral situation. If you need help brainstorming strategies for maintaining a good dental cleaning routine, or if you just remembered you really need to make an appointment, call 505-372-1121. Dr. Zhang and the Juniper Dental team will be happy to help!