“Spring cleaning” is defined as “the act or process of doing a thorough cleaning of a place.” This might not be one of the many definitions your child is learning in school, but that doesn’t mean their dental health should miss out on the benefits of a spring cleaning. Perhaps they ate too much candy after Valentine’s Day, and if so, their smile could use a fresh start. Keep reading to get some helpful tips on this concept from a pediatric dentist in Garland.
Get Your Child’s Toothbrush Ready for Spring
The American Dental Association recommends getting a new toothbrush every 3-4 months – or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Instead of an exact replacement, consider upgrading your little one’s toothbrush. While firm or medium bristles might make it feel like they are getting a more thorough cleaning, this can actually do more harm than good.
Especially if they brush too hard, the result could be loss of enamel or receding gums, so opting for a soft-bristled brush is a wise move. Also, due to their vibrations or rotating movement, electric toothbrushes are proven to offer a more thorough cleaning than their manual counterparts.
Don’t Disregard Expiration Dates
Expiration dates apply to more than the milk in your fridge or the bread on the kitchen counter. Don’t forget that your child’s dental care products have expiration dates too. Check out their mouthwash and toothpaste to see if they are still current and at maximum effectiveness. If not, this could be a great opportunity to switch up the products they use or at least take a good look at the options when shopping.
Take Care of Their Toothbrush Holder too
Cleaning the area where your child stores their toothbrush is a great way to keep things sanitary. After all, the container they use is exposed to the same germs and bacteria as other bathroom surfaces. Wash it in warm and soapy water, wipe it down with disinfectant, or run it through the dishwasher at least once a week to keep their toothbrush – and mouth – clean as well.
Spruce Up Their Dental Health by Scheduling a Spring Cleaning
Especially if their last dental checkup was well before the holiday season, consider getting a fresh start for your child with a professional teeth cleaning. Their dental team will polish away stains, remove tartar buildup, and make sure they don’t have any developing oral health concerns. Plus, it’s a great time to ask their dentist any questions that might have arisen in recent months.
While your child taking optimal care of their teeth should be a priority regardless of season, the theme of spring cleaning does offer a great opportunity to upgrade the standing of their mouth just in time for the improvement in the weather and perhaps more friends and family to smile at! Their pediatric dentist in Garland is ready to help them do exactly that.
About the Author
Dr. Lily Hoang is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a mother who cherishes family time. She earned her dental doctorate at the Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona. CA. Dr. Hoang is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and has completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry certification. If your child’s smile would benefit from a spring cleaning, you can schedule a dental checkup and cleaning on her website or by calling (469) 925-0861.