Listerine

I'll be the first to admit I just never adopted proper dental habits as a child and that oral negligence has carried over into my young adult-hood.

Don't get me wrong, I brush my teeth. Always have, once a day.

But therein lies the problem.

Last time I checked dentists recommend brushing twice a day and flossing.

So as you can see I fell markedly short of dental minimums, thus I apparently neglect my mouth.

I probably would have gone on this way for months and months to come if it weren't for my last trip to the dentist.
Normally, when you get your teeth cleaned its an in-and-out deal; 30-45 mins tops. But not this time.

The hygienist spent a good 60 minutes doing what they do (you know, the scraping, the cleaning, etc...) and she knew that I needed to step my game up when it comes cleaning the mouth.

So, to save this poor lady from having to clean my teeth that long the next time and seeing that look of despair in her eyes next time I come in I have decided to make some changes.

I've increased the brushing frequency to 1.5 times a day. I can't say we are at the goal of two yet because frankly, when it's late, and I'm tired, sometimes I just lay down and fall asleep. My teeth are not at the forefront of my mind at this time.

In addition to brushing more I've decided (by recommendation) to start using the Listerine.

At first this was a painful decision. Anyone who has braved the 30 seconds of torture Listerine imposes on you has to know what I'm talking about. Your eyes get red, they water, and you just are dying to spit the shit out to make the hurt go away. But you don't, you press on, because you know that pain is a good pain, a germ killing pain, and it's worth it.

But lately I haven't been experiencing this dramatic of a sensation when I use it. Sure, it's a little unpleasant, but not nearly the God-awful burning that there once was.

Have I built up a tolerance to the pain?
Is my mouth just cleaner now than it once was?

Regardless I feel the addition of Listerine into the daily mix has been a positive one. The gums don't bleed anymore, my teeth appear whiter (although this could just be an illusion) and mentally I feel better about myself.

As far as the flossing goes.... yeah, still can't get into that.
Maybe some day.