Brushing Your Teeth During the Holidays 101

Brushing your teeth for the holidays is as easy as brushing your teeth at any other point of the year, except that you may find yourself swept up in the holiday busyness. But the techniques we have always used for combating tooth decay and gum disease are just as important now as any other time of year. One of the most important things you can do is to remember to practice safe and effective toothbrushing techniques. Here are a few things you can do to keep your mouth smiling all season long:

• Use toothbrushes with softer bristles, as harder bristles can damage your gums. Also, be sure not to press too hard. The goal is to clean the teeth, not strip them of their enamel.
• Keep your toothbrushes clean and properly stored when not in use.
• Look for toothbrushes and toothpaste that are dentist-recommended with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
• Chewy candies and hard candies can be extremely difficult to brush away. If possible, avoid them, or give extra care to brushing your teeth after consumption.
• Many holiday delights can leave residue behind in hard to reach places, so be sure to brush thoroughly on all sides and surfaces of each tooth.
• Visit your dentist every six months or as directed for an oral exam with Dr. Robert Walinchus, or a professional cleaning.
• Make sure to brush your teeth for 2 minutes, at least twice daily.

With the proper oral health care holiday hygiene, you can make your mouth dazzle this holiday season. For more information about brushing your teeth, or to schedule an appointment with Robert E. Walinchus, DMD in Springfield, Pennsylvania, please call us at 610-543-3674 to speak with a merry member of our team. Let us help you achieve a healthy smile.