Maybe you’ve recently scrolled through your camera roll and noticed you rarely smiled in photos last year. Everybody should feel confident to show off their best friend.
Perhaps this year is when you’ve decided it’s time to improve your pearly whites. Here are six ways to have a sparkling smile.
1. Brush and Floss Your Teeth Daily
For a healthier smile, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. You can remove plaque, surface stains, and bad breath by following a consistent routine.
The American Dental Association recommends adults brush their teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. To remove any food residue, you may also use mouthwash.
Some toothpaste and mouthwashes have teeth whitening ingredients that can help make your smile shine brighter.
2. Stop Smoking
Most people know that smoking is bad for your health. It can also cause oral conditions such as:
- Gum disease
- Stains and discoloration
- Loss of taste
- Tooth decay
- Oral lesions
- Mouth cancer
40% of American smokers between 20 and 64 years old have untreated decay in their teeth, while 43% of those over 65 have lost all their teeth.
You can reduce your risk of serious disease by quitting smoking, whether you smoke every day or just occasionally. This will allow your gums to heal faster and enhance your smile.
3. Visit Your Dentist
For proper cleaning, the Cleveland Clinic recommends that you visit your dentist twice a year. You should schedule appointments with your dentist according to your individual needs.
Talk to your dentist while you have your teeth cleaned. They will discuss your current oral care and offer suggestions.You may also seek periodontal care in avon lake if needed, as it is an integral part of oral care
Ask them about cosmetic dentistry to improve your smile, such as Invisalign teeth straightening and teeth whitening.
4. Limit the intake of beverages that stain your teeth
According to the National Coffee Association, 62% of Americans consumed coffee every day in 2020. Coffee and other beverages can stain teeth, even though they are essential for many people.
Avoid tea, coffee and wine. They can stain the surface of your teeth and make it difficult to clean. They may stain your tooth enamel.
You might want to drink these types of beverages through a straw, or make a habit of regularly washing your mouth with water or mouthwash.
5. Be healthier
Sugary drinks and foods are a problem. Sugar and bacteria can combine to make an acid. The acid can eventually cause tooth decay, erode enamel, and lead to cavities or dental caries.
To maintain good oral health, you need to eat a balanced diet. The following foods are recommended by dentists:
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables — like apples, celery and carrots — have anti-inflammatory properties, produce saliva and keep your gums clean.
- Foods high in calcium — cheese, yogurt and milk — build enamel and repair tooth damage, neutralize acid and promote stronger bone health.
- Leafy greens rich in folic acid, calcium and other essential nutrients and mineral minerals can help gums and teeth.
- Brazil nuts and cashews are good for stimulating saliva and fighting oral bacteria.
- For protecting tooth enamel, fatty fish like salmon are rich in phosphorus and other minerals.
6. Drink More Water
Water is the best beverage to nourish your body, teeth and mouth for better oral health and a brighter smile. Fluoridated water from safe sources is the best option. Bottled water may not contain fluoride. Fluoridated water can reduce your chances of tooth decay and cavities by 25%
Drinking water throughout the day helps to create saliva, wash away food debris, and wash away leftovers from meals and snacks.
Make positive habits for a better smile
Although it takes time to change your habits, you will notice a difference in your smile if you follow these six tips. Even if you don’t notice a difference right away, a healthier lifestyle and regular oral hygiene practice will significantly enhance your overall well-being.
