McKinney Dentist | It Might Be Time To Replace That Old Toothbrush
Because they are relatively new to oral health care, kids often receive extra protection against cavities with fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Adults have more experience with preventive dental care, and they can have an easier time turning down sugary foods and drinks. Of course, that does not mean people always do a perfect job defending their smiles against tooth decay and gum disease. One mistake people sometimes make is holding onto a toothbrush for too long. Over time, as the bristles on a brush wear down, the effectiveness of brushing is reduced. Your McKinney, TX dentist can always provide insights on better at-home care during your next routine dental checkup!
An Older Toothbrush Can Provide Less Support For Your Smile
As you move your brush over your teeth, you should feel confident that you are providing meaningful support for your smile. The time you put into your routine matters to your oral health, and your diet choices matter, too. What you should know is that the oral care products you use also matter. If you want to make sure you benefit as much as possible from your brushing routine, replace a toothbrush after three to four months, or when you notice signs of wear and tear on the bristles.
Other Small, But Important, Oral Care Practices You Should Follow
Your toothpaste should contain fluoride, and show the ADA Seal Of Approval on its packaging. When these are not present, you should be concerned about the value of your product. In addition to brushing, make sure you floss every day. The motions you use to brush and floss will matter, particularly when it comes to fighting gum disease. You should cover every area of your teeth when you clean them, including spaces between teeth, and your gum line. Flossing helps keep those between-teeth spaces clean; to cover your gum line, make sure you address it directly while brushing and flossing.
Your Dentist Can Keep You Informed About The Health Of Your Smile
Improving your oral care routine can make you more confident, but to be truly sure that your smile is healthy, schedule a dental exam. Your dentist relies on experience and advanced tools to thoroughly check on your oral health. While you can be frustrated to hear that you have a problem that requires restorative dental work, remember that early detection leads to early treatment, which limits how much harm your tooth suffers.
Illume Dental Can Offer Important Guidance On Your Oral Care Habits
Illume Dental in McKinney, TX is proud to deliver a quality oral care experience. We welcome patients of all ages who want to improve the quality of their smile, and those who are interested in a checkup to make sure everything is in order! To learn more, please call Illume Dental in McKinney, TX, today at (469) 301-1255.