As spring blooms around us, many of us emerge from winter hibernation with renewed energy. This seasonal shift also brings changes to our diets—from acidic fruits to graduation party desserts. These springtime indulgences, combined with busier schedules thanks to longer days, can create new challenges for maintaining optimal dental health. By upgrading your brushing techniques, you’ll protect your smile’s brightness throughout spring’s social calendar. Keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Brush at the Right Time
Most people brush at the same time each day out of habit. However, spring’s varied schedule calls for a more strategic approach to maximize dental protection.
Consider implementing the “30-minute wait” rule. Apply this after consuming acidic foods and drinks like strawberries, juice, or refreshing lemonade. Brushing immediately after can damage enamel. Instead, rinse with water right after consumption, then wait half an hour before brushing. This allows your saliva to naturally neutralize acids and remineralize your enamel.
2. Use the Quadrant Approach
Spring cleaning applies to your dental routine too! As you reorganize closets and refresh your home, it’s the perfect time to implement a more thorough brushing routine. The quadrant approach can help you improve your routine.
Here’s how it works: divide your mouth into four quadrants, including your upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Spend 30 seconds thoroughly cleaning each quadrant. Focusing on all three surfaces of the teeth (outer, inner, and chewing surfaces). This methodical approach prevents the common springtime rush that happens when we’re eager to get outdoors and enjoy the nicer weather.
3. Reduce Your Toothbrushing Pressure
Brushing your teeth with too much pressure can damage your smile. Test your pressure by holding your toothbrush with just three fingertips instead of a full-hand grip. This lighter hold naturally reduces excessive force while still allowing effective plaque removal.
You may also consider brushing with your non-dominant hand once a week. You experience more conscious control, typically resulting in gentler, more deliberate strokes. If you use an electric toothbrush, let it do the work without adding pressure.
4. Optimize Your Angle
As spring motivates us to improve our gardens and outdoor spaces, apply that same mindset to optimize the angle of your toothbrush while brushing.
Make sure you position your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline. It allows the bristles to clean the crucial area where your gums meet your teeth. For inner surfaces of front teeth, turn your brush vertically and use the tip to make gentle up-and-down strokes. When cleaning chewing surfaces, hold the brush flat and move it back and forth with light pressure.
5. Renew Your Toothbrush
Spring is the traditional season for renewal and replacement. Apply this principle to your dental tools for improved results without changing your routine.
Examine your toothbrush for signs of wear. If you see splayed bristles, discoloration, or a worn appearance signal it’s time for replacement. Spring is also the perfect time to implement a regular three-month replacement schedule if you don’t already follow one. If you’ve been considering an upgrade to an electric toothbrush, now is the perfect time to make the switch.
As spring activities fill your calendar, these brushing techniques will help you maintain optimal dental health. Your smile deserves this attention. Book your dental checkup to create a seasonal care plan that keeps your smile beautiful and healthy.
Call Trobough Dental at 702-757-3703 for an appointment in Las Vegas, NV. You can also make an appointment online.
