When To Replace Your Toothbrush And Other Oral Health Tips

At Vargas Dental Associates, we continuously stress the importance of caring for your oral health. While routine care in our office is extremely important, caring for your teeth during the rest of the year is just as important. We know that sometimes your oral hygiene routine might be a little lax, especially after a long day, but we want to stress the importance of caring for your teeth properly each and every day. It will save you a lot of money in the end when you do not need additional dental care. Here are some helpful tips:

Replacing Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush should be replaced every 2 to 3 months, and sooner if you notice wear on the bristles. If the bristles on your toothbrush are distressed, appear to be breaking down, and are not standing up straight, it is time for a new one. Toothbrushes also need to be changed after an illness, especially strep throat.

Floss Daily
We all know the importance of brushing our teeth daily, but a lot of people don’t understand the importance of flossing daily as well. We can tell during a routine examination if you floss your teeth. Dental floss helps remove food and bacteria from between your teeth. If not removed, it can lead to tooth decay as well as gum disease.

Don’t Snack Throughout the Day
Each time you eat, harmful bacteria are introduced into your mouth. The production of saliva helps remove some of the bacteria, but it still lingers on and between your teeth. Over time, this can lead to problems with decay. When you frequently snack throughout the day, there is an abundance of harmful bacteria in your mouth. The same can be said if you regularly drink coffee.

If you have any other questions about your oral health or you need a routine hygiene examination, be sure to contact our office located in Bowie, MD to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!