No matter who we are, the closer we get to our scheduled dental cleaning and exam, the more we have a tendency to grow a bit nervous. Even if we practice exceptional oral hygiene, our hygienist and dentist possess a knowledge that we ourselves do not possess, and because of that, even in a small way, we have the tendency to think that the visit is going to be a bad one. If you practice proper oral hygiene, then you have very little to worry about, but even if your oral hygiene habits could use improvement, there’s still time to even partially reverse the effects of neglect. In this blog, we will talk about some basic ways for you to prepare for your exam a few months in advance. The Dental Centre aims to be provide you with optimum dentist services in Ontario. To set up an appointment for a cleaning or checkup, contact The Dental Centre today!
Do Not Do Any Last Minute Rigorous Cleaning
For so many reasons, trying to reverse the effects of a poor diet and poor brushing habits overnight is not going to work out as you’d think it might. Dentists are like our mothers: there’s no fooling them and they know when we’re lying. While mothers may have mother’s intuition, dentists have something a bit more concrete to base things off of. When we brush, floss and rinse rigorously, not only is it no remedy for months of neglect, it also is very easy to see. Things like irritated, dried out and recessed gums are all signs that you did some last minute cleaning, and not only does it cause more problems than it fixes, but it also shows your dentist that your brushing habits aren’t what you claim them to be.
Start a Consistent and Brushing Schedule Far in Advance
Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is what the Canadian Dental Association suggests, but some of us find it hard to make a habit of this. As we stated above, trying to reverse the effects of neglect isn’t something that we can achieve overnight, but consistent and regular brushing is what will eventually get our pearly whites looking and feeling great. Brushing first thing in the morning and again before you go to bed will bring you the results you’re hoping to get by brushing at the last minute.
Flossing Is Incredibly Important
This is an area that some have a tendency to neglect, but flossing at least once every 24 hours is incredibly important to your overall oral health. Just like how your dentist can visibly see the effects of last minute brushing, they can see the effects of last minute flossing, as well. Even the best electric toothbrush cannot replace a regular flossing schedule, as flossing clears out food particles, plaque and other oral debris that get built up throughout a day of eating and drinking.
Use a Mouthwash Regularly
While not as important as brushing and flossing, daily rinsing with a mouthwash can do everything from helping fight things like gingivitis and tooth decay, prevent cavities, freshen your breath, and in some cases, whiten your teeth. Think of it as an afterthought with flossing, clearing out any loose buildup that flossing left behind.
By following this simple guide, your dental cleaning will be easy for both you and your dentist, and they’ll be impressed by your consistent and responsible oral hygiene practices. For all your dentist and cleaning needs in Ontario, contact the Dental Centre today!