Monday, February 1, 2016

Happy New Year! We resolved to become regular bloggers, so here we go…

January is already over. How are those New Year’s Resolutions going? We see the New Year as a time when little changes can make a BIG difference. Of course, we’re thinking of your smile...
You know the basic rules of home care: brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day; floss once a day; visit your dental team twice a year for dental cleanings. But sometimes people fall out of habit, despite the best intentions. We’d like to share some tips and tricks to keep your smile bright and healthy while balancing work and home life.

Navigating lunch at work or school
If you’re unable to brush your teeth after lunch, rinse with a little water. This is especially good if you’ve eaten sweets (including fruit) as it keeps the acid level down and prevents decay. You can also prevent decay by chewing a piece of sugarless xylitol gum.
There are certain foods called “detergent” foods that act like mini toothbrushes while you eat. Pack your lunch with apples, cauliflower, carrots, celery, radishes...These veggies are great for your oral health AND your overall health.

Being a good flosser
Our patients often tell us they can’t find time to floss. It’s actually pretty easy to work into your day. Keep a bag flossers in the car and floss at red lights or when you’re stuck in traffic. You only need one hand to floss this way, and you’ll at least check one thing off your to-do list.
The best dental routine we can recommend is when you’re winding down after dinner. Before you settle down to relax, brush your teeth (for two minutes!). Then floss while you watch TV or read. Not only is it a great time to floss, but it makes you think twice about that midnight snack. (Do you really want to go through your routine all over again?) It’s a two for one bonus!

Make sure you’re really brushing for two minutes
Two minutes is longer than most people realize. We have a couple tricks to make sure you’re brushing for two full minutes. You can buy an electric toothbrush with a timer in it. You can also use an egg timer. But our favorite way to brush is with music. Playing a favorite song while you brush, and brushing for the length of that song, is a great way to ensure that you’re brushing for the right amount time. Pick a song that’s around two minutes (you don’t need to brush to “Stairway to Heaven”) and brush away. Who knows? You might find yourself looking forward to your dental routine.

We hope you find these tips helpful. If you have any tips to add, please leave a comment below.