We all know that the holidays are a joyous time of year filled with wonder, excitement, and love. We also know that behind the scenes, the holidays are chaotic and stressful. There are holiday parties, gift lists, traveling, and lots and lots of cooking.
But don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays prevent you from taking care of yourself. Be extra mindful to make the time to make sure your health and wellness are in order. After all, the health of your teeth and gums is especially important during the season of indulgence!
When should I brush?
Most dentists recommend brushing your teeth in the morning to clean away the bacteria that formed in your mouth overnight and again before bedtime or meals. Brushing too soon after eating can actually damage the enamel of your teeth. However, it’s wise to brush your teeth before eating any acidic foods and recommended that you drink a glass of water when finished to help wash away the acids.
Flossing should also be done a minimum of once per day, too! Flossing helps remove plaque from areas between your teeth that you can’t reach with brushing alone.
How often should I brush?
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day. Frequent brushing helps remove food and plaque from your teeth. Not sure what plaque is? It’s that white sticky film that forms on your teeth and contains all kinds of bacteria.
There is definitely such a thing as too much of a good thing when it comes to brushing your teeth. It is possible to over brush your teeth, and this can be damaging because most of us are brushing our teeth incorrectly. Your toothbrush should approach your gums at a 45-degree angle and move back and forth in small, gentle strokes. Be sure to brush the outside, inside, and chewing services of the teeth.
What kind of toothbrush should I use?
Use a soft-bristled brush to brush your teeth twice a day. If the bristles are your tooth brush are too stiff, you can cause damage to both your gums and enamel.
Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three or four months to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Plus, worn bristles are less effective at cleaning teeth since the fine tips can’t as easily reach the between your teeth and gums. You can replace your tooth brush more often if you notice the bristles are frayed (and that may mean you’re brushing too hard).
Follow these tips to ensure that you have a holiday smile that sparkles and shines!
