You’ve been told to brush your teeth as long as you’ve had them. Many of us can recall the tips and tricks grown-ups showed us to make us think toothbrushing was fun. One fan favorite for kids was that sparkly, bubblegum-flavored toothpaste or even getting to select a toothbrush with your favorite TV character on it.
You may have even learned a brushing rhyme like this: “Up, up, up like a plane – down, down, down like the rain – and side to side like a train!” Didn’t learn that one? That’s alright because you can use it now if you’d like: we won’t tell anyone.
Why all the effort to convince kids to brush? Because dental hygiene lowers your risk factors for disease, leads to better overall health outcomes, and can offer life-changing confidence. Much like brushing, visiting the dentist regularly is another teeth-related habit that most folks are encouraged to get used to when they’re young – but it doesn’t always stick as we get into adulthood, and some of us were not fortunate enough to have learned those skills early in our lives.
However, the good news is that you can start reaping the benefits of caring for your teeth, as well as regular professional cleanings. We’ll show you how to begin regular teeth cleaning routine, and how to maintain it with action, consistency, and even some fun.
Getting Started with Regular Teeth Cleaning: Start with a Goal
The way to get started with a regular, consistent teeth-cleaning schedule is to first set a goal.
The American Dental Association and most dental practitioners recommend visiting the dentist twice a year (also, many dental insurance companies will provide insurance for up to two visits a year).
If you can set this as a goal – once every 6 months – you can establish a manageable schedule for yourself. Get your appointments on the books with an office, so you have something set in stone. We recommend an office that performs cosmetic dentistry, as well as teeth cleaning services.
Why? Because they are typically the most gentle, understanding, and patient dental professionals. Their goal is to make you comfortable, and a visit there often includes perks that you can look forward to, such as entertainment and even spa-like services.
The Next Step: Manage Potential Anxieties with Self-Care
We mention the perks above because there are some superior dental offices out there that understand fear might be the reason you haven’t had a regular cleaning. This fear is a legitimate feeling – and you should address it with compassion.
First, if you schedule two regular appointments per year, you know exactly what you’re getting into. Just two appointments. That’s it. And they’re already set, so you can protect yourself from procrastinating. Then, consider the best way to manage your fears: being kind to yourself.
Are you going to take sedating medication to help you through the visit? Will you reward yourself with a treat after the visit? Perhaps you’ll set up an “interview” with the office in advance to see if it’s right for you?
You can even watch procedures online in the comfort and safety of your home to know what to expect. There are incredible options for gentle, compassionate dentistry now – and a deep awareness of how to make you as prepared as possible.
Remember: dentistry is a business, so feel free to shop around for the best guarantee that you’ll be able to make it through comfortably!
Why Setting a Goal and Practicing Self-Care Can Lead to the Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleaning
If you have a goal in mind and you’ve taken active steps to meet your goal in a way that benefits and calms you, you’re going to be able to receive all of the benefits of dentistry! As you can see, you don’t need to shift the tectonic plates of the Earth to make dentistry work for you. Set a schedule, and take action to allay your fears.
If you can do this, then you’ll be able to experience the benefits of regular teeth cleaning! The benefits are yours the taking, and they include the following:
- Cavity prevention
- Gum disease prevention
- Fresher breath
- Lower risk of heart attack or stroke
- Lower risk of type 2 diabetes
- Better health outcomes when diagnosed with dementia and other diseases
- Confidence
- Self-worth
- Pride that you’ve overcome a big fear
This last one can’t be underestimated. What else will you be able to conquer, once you realize that goal-setting, compassion, and action have led to good results?
We especially like the idea above of giving yourself a reward for your efforts. When you do this, you’re telling your mind and body that you’ve done a good job. That in itself is an excellent wellness practice. Therefore, tapping into regular teeth cleaning can set you on a road to success for your overall health and well-being – especially if you seek out a dentist whose services are aligned with your needs.