Resetting Your Oral Care Routine After a Busy Summer

Summer has a way of shaking up routines. Vacations, later bedtimes, extra treats and long days outdoors can make it easy to skip flossing or rush through brushing. As September arrives and schedules settle down, it is a great time to hit the reset button on your oral care. A few small, steady changes can help get your smile back on track.

Take Stock of Your Current Habits

Start with an honest check-in. Have you been brushing twice a day for a full two minutes? Has flossing fallen off the list? Have sweet iced drinks or afternoon snacks become a daily habit? Noticing where things slipped makes it easier to know where to focus. There is no need for perfection. Choosing one or two habits to improve first is often the most realistic way to make them stick.

Refresh Your Supplies

A new season is a good reminder to look at the tools you use every day:

• Replace your toothbrush or brush head if the bristles are frayed or it has been a few months
• Stock up on fluoride toothpaste and floss or interdental cleaners
• Keep a travel toothbrush kit in your bag or at your desk for busy days
• Pick up a refillable water bottle to make sipping water easier
• Check that any mouthguards or retainers are clean, intact and still fit

Build Habits Into Your Schedule

Linking oral care to things you already do can help. Brush right after breakfast and right before bed. Keep floss next to your toothbrush or on your nightstand. If you have kids, brushing together in the evening can turn it into a family routine. Setting a reminder on your phone for the first few weeks is another simple way to stay consistent.

Watch the Sip-and-Snack Habit

Sipping sweet coffee drinks, sodas or sports drinks throughout the day keeps teeth bathed in sugar and acid. If you enjoy these drinks, try having them with a meal instead of over several hours, and follow up with water. Making water your go-to drink during the day is one of the easiest changes you can make.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my toothbrush?

Every three to four months is a common guideline, or sooner if the bristles look worn. It is also a good idea to replace it after you have been sick.

Is it bad to brush right after drinking something acidic?

It can be. Acidic drinks can soften enamel for a short time. Rinsing with water and waiting a little while before brushing helps protect your teeth.

When should I schedule my next checkup?

If it has been a while since your last visit, early fall is a great time to book one. Your dentist can recommend how often you should come in based on your oral health.

Ready to start the season with a fresh routine? Contact Great Smiles Dental Care in Surprise, AZ to schedule a checkup and get personalized tips for keeping your smile healthy all year.