Are you ready to pucker up for a holiday kiss under the mistletoe? Or do you avoid any close contact because of halitosis. The holiday season can be a time of closeness and affection with loved ones. Hugs and kisses abound, and conspiratorial conversations over gifts and plans can be common. Bad breath might make you feel extremely uncomfortable about any social interactions. This is no way to live. You deserve to have confidence that your breath is not offensive, and Pella, IA general dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Allen can help.
Three Steps for Acquiring a Kissable Mouth
Step 1: Brush your Teeth
This may seem brazenly obvious, but ignoring oral hygiene is something that happens, especially when you are in a hectic time of year. If you burn the candle at both ends, you may be more likely to crash in front of the television in your clothes than take the time to floss, brush, and put your jammies on before settling in for a long winter’s nap. Do your best not to neglect at least twice-a-day brushing and throw in a minty, anti-bacterial mouthwash for good measure.
Step 2: Don’t Forget to Floss
Many people prioritize brushing in their oral hygiene routine and think of flossing as something they should do, but only actually implement on random occasions. Do your best not to ignore the recommendations of your dentist and dental hygienist and floss every single day. Bacteria and plaque can get caught in the cracks and crevices between your teeth and floss is the answer to dislodging the debris so your teeth and gums are healthy and your breath is fresh.
Step 3: Six Month Dental Checkups
Be sure to not use the holiday season (or any time of the year) as an excuse to cancel your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. If you should become ill or have something come up that makes canceling a necessity, try and reschedule right away. If you put off going to the dentist, bad breath issues can become worse as tartar builds up in your mouth and excess germs populate on the back of your tongue. A good dental cleaning twice-a-year will go a long way in making you mistletoe ready.
Dental Checkups from your Pella, IA General Dentist
Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.