Last Updated on June 30, 2023
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s a common scenario for busy moms to juggle work-life balance, childcare, and their health. Amidst this whirlwind, maintaining oral hygiene can often take a backseat, a situation that could lead to long-term dental issues. However, taking care of your oral health doesn’t have to be arduous, and with some clever tips and tricks, even the busiest moms can prioritize their dental care.
Regular Dentist Visits: Sparing time for regular dental checkups is vital to get a professional’s view of your oral health status. They can provide personalized advice, preventive care, and catch oral health issues before they worsen. Regular professional cleaning can eliminate stains and tartar that you can’t remove at home.
Moreover, if you’ve noticed signs of dental issues such as gum bleeding, toothache, or inflammation, it’s important to consult with your dentist promptly. For instance, if your teeth have undergone significant discoloration over the years, you might consider professional teeth whitening solutions like Elevate Dental teeth whitening to restore your smile’s brilliance.
A Head Start: Waking up 10-15 minutes earlier than your children can give you a head start in maintaining oral hygiene. It grants you enough time to adequately brush and floss your teeth, establishing a solid foundation for your day. Ensure you dedicate at least two minutes per brushing session to thoroughly cleanse your teeth of bacteria and plaque.
Brushing Twice Daily: Essential to any oral hygiene routine is brushing your teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed. Despite the exhaustion after a long day, it’s crucial to brush at night to prevent bacteria buildup, leading to cavities, bad breath, and plaque.
Daily Flossing: Flossing, though often overlooked, is critical for your oral hygiene routine. It helps in cleaning areas that your toothbrush might miss, especially between the teeth. Aim to floss at least once a day to keep your teeth in their best shape.
Regular Use of Mouthwash: A good mouthwash can supplement your brushing and flossing routine by targeting any residual bacteria. Use an antiseptic mouthwash, ideally without whitening agents, at least twice a day to maintain gum health. The minor discomfort caused by the alcohol content in mouthwashes is a small price to pay for excellent oral health.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush: Not all toothbrushes are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a difference. Opt for a brush with a small head and soft bristles to gently cleanse your teeth and gums. A toothbrush with a non-slip grip can make brushing easier, especially with wet hands. Regularly replace your toothbrush—every six months at least—as a new brush is more efficient at cleaning plaque.
Correct Brushing Techniques: Even the best toothbrush is useless without proper brushing techniques. Brush your teeth in a soft, circular motion, ensuring you don’t rub too hard against your teeth and gums. Break your mouth into quadrants and devote at least 30 seconds to brushing each area.
Disinfecting Your Toothbrush: It’s crucial to regularly disinfect your toothbrush to eliminate accumulated bacteria and dirt. Using an isopropyl bottle, spray some alcohol on the bristles and let it dry for a few minutes. Do this for your children’s toothbrushes too, inculcating good dental hygiene habits from a young age.
Use of Straws: Acidic and sugary drinks can be harmful to your teeth. Using a straw can help prevent these beverages from directly contacting your teeth. Carry a reusable metal straw with you for this purpose.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can increase saliva production, helping remove bacteria and food particles stuck between teeth. Dentists recommend this easy-to-implement tactic for busy moms.
Drinking Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated throughout the day aids overall health and oral hygiene. It promotes saliva production, helping flush out harmful bacteria. Carry a two-litre water bottle when you’re out and about, and make it a goal to finish it by the end of the day.
Rest and Relaxation: Stress and lack of sleep can impact oral health negatively. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep each night and take short naps during the day if possible. In conclusion, no matter how packed our schedules are, oral health care should never be sidelined. It might be challenging for busy moms to balance work, parenting, and personal care, but with these tips and tricks, maintaining oral hygiene becomes a manageable task. Remember, you’re the role model your child looks up to, so make oral health a top priority, and set a positive example for them to follow.