Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. It allows people to connect with who you are, and creates a positive image. But a healthy smile is not something you can get overnight. It takes a real commitment to oral hygiene, a desire for good dental health, and a proactive approach to making it happen, for you to be able to flash those pearly whites with confidence. The indisputable power of a smile can be yours, by following these five simple steps.
Brush Twice a Day
This is a given, but many people still need to be reminded. Brushing helps teeth to stay whiter and healthier, ensuring that plaque does not have the opportunity to harden into tartar. When brushing your teeth, position the bristles at an angle of 45 degrees near the gum line, keeping the gum line and the tooth surface in contact with the bristles. Brush gently with a back-and-forth, up-and-down motion, and then do the insides at the same 45-degree angle. Finally, brush the surfaces of your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove the bacteria that causes bad breath.
Floss Daily
It can be cumbersome at times, so it’s easy to skip, but it’s important to floss after brushing. Flossing helps remove food particles, plaque, and other detrimental substances form those little crevices where the toothbrush cannot reach. Daily flossing helps prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. To floss properly, wrap the floss tightly around your finger, and insert it in the space between your teeth. Gently slide it up and down under the gum lines 2-3 times.
Use Mouthwash Regularly
Mouthwashes are very helpful because they maintain the levels of bacteria in your mouth by killing those that can harm you. A quick swish helps maintain good breath, as well as strong teeth. Of course, you can choose from a variety of options, depending on your need, from antiseptic to fluoride, which can be an able complement to brushing and flossing.
Limit Coffee and Tea
If you are a tea and/or coffee drinker, you will know the pain of stained teeth. These beverages contain a high level of phosphorous, which can deplete the body’s level of calcium, causing problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Beverages containing additives such as corn syrup and food dye can make pearly white teeth appear dull and discoloured. If you can’t give up your tea/coffee, rinse your mouth frequently with water so the dark liquid does not sit on your teeth for long. It would be best though to replace these with beverages like milk, which helps strengthen teeth and build stronger enamel, giving you a healthy, beautiful smile.
See Your Dental Hygienist
A visit to the dentist every six months will help you catch issues early on. While you are there, you can get yourself a basic cleaning, to get rid of any harmful bacteria that may have been in hiding. Routine check-ups promote good oral health, and give you that desired smile that inspires a thousand quotes.