As your Beaverton family dental care choice, we know that with moving fast, job stress, family chores, life dilemmas with life happening all around you it is hard to manage everything that alone your personal health. Taking care of yourself when you are stressed is the most important thing you can do for your health. This means eating healthy, getting plenty of rest, brushing your teeth, flossing every day, and having access to a family dental is a bonus!
Patients come in and ask us for some quick and easy tips on how to take the best care of their teeth. Here is a list of the best oral care tips for busy people.
Buy a New Toothbrush
When was the last time you bought a new toothbrush? Chances are it has been a while since you have swapped your old toothbrush out for a brand new one. We recommend changing your toothbrush or the head of your electric toothbrush every 3-4 months. If you don’t, you’re just transferring bacteria around your mouth.
Brush Your Teeth The Right Way
The best way to brush your teeth is by placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently moving it in a circular motion, rather than a back-and-forth motion. Grip the toothbrush like a pencil so you won’t scrub too hard.
Pass on The Dark Foods
Dark colored foods and drinks can stain your teeth over time. If you are a busy person and don’t have time to brush your teeth after every meal, then avoid the dark-colored foods. Colas, gravies, and dark juices can also affect how pretty your teeth will be. Bottom line: If it’s dark before you put it in your mouth, it will probably stain your teeth.
Choose Crunchy Fresh Food
Did you know that foods that are firm or crisp help clean teeth as you eat them? Oranges, cucumbers, apples, raw carrots, celery, and popcorn are all good foods for your teeth. For best results, eat these foods as a final food you eat in your meal if you know you won’t be able to brush your teeth right after eating.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash is a great product to help keep your teeth clean, especially if you are busy. If you don’t have time to brush after lunch a quick swoosh of mouthwash can help just as much. When you do pick a brand, make sure it is alcohol-free. Most over-the-counter mouthwashes have too much alcohol, which can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria. But when you are feeling stressed out and in a hurry a quick swish swash of fresh mouthwash can save the day.
