5 Easy Ways to Freshen Up Your Smile for Spring!

The weather is warming up, the birds are chirping, and the flowers are blooming. It’s official…springtime has arrived. This season is a time of renewal, which means spring cleaning is often a part of people’s “to-do” lists during March. While not often considered, you can always put your smile on that list! There’s no better time than now to push the reset button on your oral health. Here are five simple ways to refresh your smile for spring.

#1. Get a New Toothbrush

Is your toothbrush looking a bit frayed? If so, may be time to throw it out and get a new one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months. And this is not just some sneaky marketing tactic from the dental hygiene product industry! When your bristles are frayed on your toothbrush, your teeth are not only being thoroughly cleaned from plaque buildup, but you could be damaging your enamel. Additionally, the rough edges could also increase your chances of gum recession. Time to throw out the old and bring in the new!

#2. Clean Your Toothbrush Holder

There are many things in a household that are used on such a regular basis that they can get overlooked for a deep cleaning. This can include your toothbrush holder! Unfortunately, it is exposed to all the germs and bacteria in your bathroom. To ensure you aren’t spreading any of those things to your toothbrush (and then your mouth!), be sure to thoroughly clean your toothbrush holder. You can either disinfect it in warm, soapy water or throw it in the dishwasher. You will have a sparkly, super-clean holder for your spring smile.

#3. Say Goodbye to Old Dental Products

Did you know that dental products have a certain shelf life? Yes, it’s not just the vegetables and containers in your refrigerator that have an expiration date! Your mouthwash and toothpaste are usable for only a certain amount of time and if you use them past it, they are likely to not be as effective. Take the time to do a spring cleaning on your oral hygiene products for those that are past their prime. You can always replace them with new items you’ve been wanting to try!

#4. Upgrade Your Smile

With springtime comes special events like weddings, family reunions, and graduation ceremonies. To look spring-fresh, you can always consider upgrading your smile with cosmetic dental treatments. From veneers to professional teeth whitening, you can upgrade your teeth in just two visits to your dentist!

#5. Schedule a Routine Cleaning

In addition to your oral health routine, visiting your dentist every six months is essential to maintaining healthy and beautiful teeth. Your dentist will professionally clean and polish them, as well as remove any tartar buildup. They’ll also give you a thorough dental exam, which will help detect any issues before they become more serious. You’ll leave your dental office with a fresh, clean smile and ready to enjoy all that spring has to offer!

About the Author

Dr. Mark Stapleton and his team at White Oak Dental are eager to help keep your smile whole, healthy, and bright. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. He also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He provides a full range of dental services, including preventive care and cosmetic treatments. To schedule an appointment, contact him through his website or call (952) 448-2868.