The value of establishing an oral care routine cannot be overstated. Dental issues you develop down the line can cause numerous troublesome symptoms, and they may also be expensive to treat. Adopting a good routine now can save you from emergency trips to the dentist office. Many of us already know what constitutes a good oral care routine, but sticking to it can be challenging. The tips below should help you develop and maintain a good routine.
Adopt a New Perspective to Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is one of the most essential parts of oral hygiene, but it’s not the most engaging habit. The activity can sometimes feel tiresome, which may be enough to dissuade you from continuing your routine. Changing your perspective on brushing can also encourage you to clean your teeth more often.
You can feel your teeth after you’re done to make brushing more rewarding. The smooth texture of your plaque-free teeth can be pleasant to touch. Achieving that level of cleanliness every time you brush can be your goal.
Regularly changing your toothbrush can also make the activity more engaging. You may feel more excited because you can use a new toothbrush for your cleaning sessions. Note that toothbrushes with soft bristles are also better for your teeth because they are less likely to cause damage.
You can also think of brushing your teeth as a way to escape the hustle and bustle of your day. Brush after enjoying your lunch at work and use that time to decompress. The brushing sessions at the start and end of your day can also be milestones for your daily routine.
If you still find yourself occasionally neglecting your brushing routine, getting your family involved is a good idea. Start brushing at the same time as your kid to make it more fun.
Change Your Approach to Flossing
According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, 20% of Americans do not floss. That statistic needs to change because flossing complements the effects of brushing. Dental floss can reach parts of your mouth that a toothbrush cannot, so it rounds out your cleaning. Making the experience of flossing more pleasant is good for your oral care routine.
First off, there’s something wrong with the way you’re flossing if it hurts. Schedule a visit to the dentist office to confirm if you’re using the right type of floss. Your dentist may tell you to use different dental floss if you’re experiencing discomfort. The size of the gaps between your teeth can determine which type of dental you should be using.
New flossing options are also reaching the market. If the conventional variant of dental floss doesn’t work for you, a water flosser may provide a more enjoyable experience. Ask your dentist if a water flosser is suitable for your teeth.
Once again, flossing with your loved ones can make the activity more engaging and enjoyable. Your kid will appreciate flossing beside you, especially if they struggle with that habit. Teach them the proper technique so they have an easier time flossing.
Use Therapeutic Mouthwash Before Going to Bed
Adding mouthwash to your oral care routine is a beneficial decision. Any dentist office will tell you that mouthwash protects against tooth decay and gum disease. It also helps soothe issues affecting your mouth and prevents bad breath.
Do note that not all types of mouthwash can offer those benefits. According to the American Dental Association, only therapeutic mouthwash can provide the protection you need. Switch to using therapeutic mouthwash if you haven’t done so already.
You should also use mouthwash before going to bed. Having that fresh feeling in your mouth can make resting in your bed more enjoyable. Morning breath and drool stains may also become lesser issues after you start using therapeutic mouthwash.
Purchase a Travel Case for Your Dental Accessories
While on vacation, many of us tend to neglect our regular habits. Those neglected habits often include brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Why is it easy to neglect essential habits during a vacation?
For starters, you may forget the items you need to maintain your oral care routine. Since you couldn’t find good spots for your dental accessories in your luggage, you decided to purchase them at your destination. However, fatigue or your itinerary may thwart your plans to purchase those dental accessories. You may only realize your error when you’re already preparing for bed.
Your inability to get comfortable with the new dental accessories you purchased may also discourage you from brushing or flushing. Since your toothbrush and dental floss aren’t comfortable to use, you may decide to hold off on hygiene until the next day. Placing your dental accessories in your luggage can also cause problems. If your accessories break inside your bag, you may have nothing to use at the hotel.
Don’t give yourself an excuse to avoid brushing or flossing by taking better care of your dental accessories. Pick up a travel case for your accessories before leaving so you can store them safely in your luggage. Take them out of your bag soon after reaching your destination and resume your oral care routine.
Adjust Your Oral Care Routine Whenever Necessary
A common mistake people make when it comes to their self-care routines is being rigid with their habits. They have an established routine that must be followed at all costs. If they cannot abide by their routine, they may become less likely to complete the tasks involved.
While we understand how frustrating it can be when you cannot follow your routine, you still have to prepare for that possibility. Every day is full of surprises, and you may be forced to change your plans. Brush your teeth earlier or later than normal based on when your schedule fills up. Making a mental note of the changes to your oral care routine can also help you follow through with them.
Carve Out Time for Your Dental Appointments
You will have more success maintaining your oral care routine by scheduling regular appointments with your dentist. Those appointments at your dentist office are essential because they allow professionals to monitor your dental health. They can also perform necessary cleanings to protect your teeth and gums from different diseases. Schedule your dental appointments well in advance!
Partner With the Right Dental Professionals
Finally, working with the right dentist can help establish and maintain an oral care routine. It’s hard to develop a working relationship with a dentist who only goes through the motions during your appointments. Those appointments can feel like pulling teeth, both literally and figuratively. Look for a healthcare provider with a good track record of accommodating patients so you can have an enjoyable time at the dentist office.
Sticking to your daily oral care routine requires a firm commitment. Following the excellent tips above can help with that goal. Get in touch with our team at Bright Side Dental today to learn more about our oral care services. With several locations, we’re sure there is a dentist office ideal for you and your family. Let us work on finalizing your oral care routine! We look forward to working with your family soon.