Want a smile that lights up a room instead of one that scares people away? Want to ensure that your teeth and gums are as healthy as they can possibly be? Here are a few things you are going to want to do to build your best smile:
1. Tooth Whitening the Right Way
We all want white teeth right? But in your bid to have a beautiful white smile, do not be tempted to buy home whitening kits which can often be more harmful than they do good, causing teeth to become weaker, chipped, and maybe even broken over time. Play it safe and visit a tooth whitening dentist instead because not only will they know how to get your teeth white squarely, but they will be able to help you with any other oral health issues you may be having too.
2. Floss Like You Mean It
Yeah, yeah, we know—you’ve heard it all before. But flossing is like that unsung hero in the movie that saves the day when no one else is paying attention. Sure, it doesn’t get the same glory as brushing, but flossing is where the real magic happens. It gets into all those nooks and crannies that your toothbrush can’t reach. And trust us, no one needs to know what you had for lunch two days ago still hanging out between your teeth. Flossing = fresher breath + healthier gums. Win-win.
3. Brush, But With Style
Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of a healthy smile, but let’s jazz it up a bit. Upgrade to an electric toothbrush if you haven’t already—it’s like giving your teeth a power wash instead of a gentle scrub. Plus, these fancy brushes often come with timers to make sure you’re hitting the dentist-recommended two minutes. Two whole minutes. Feels like forever, but your teeth will thank you.
4. Eat Your Way to a Brighter Smile (Yes, You Read That Right)
Turns out, what you eat doesn’t just affect your waistline—it’s messing with your smile too. Crunchy fruits and veggies (hello, apples and carrots) act like nature’s toothbrush, scrubbing away plaque while you munch. And calcium-rich foods like cheese and yogurt? They help strengthen your teeth from the inside out. So next time you’re snacking, think of your smile and go for something that pulls double duty.
5. Hydrate Like You’re on a Mission
We all know that water is great for our skin and helps to keep it plump and youthful-looking, but did you know that it’s also great for your teeth? If you drink lots of water it will help to wash away acids and food particles, which means your teeth will be stronger and whiter. It’s particularly good to swish your mouth with water after eating for this reason.
Building a healthy smile is like building any other healthy habit – you have to stick with it to see a difference, but see a difference you will. Of course, more sustained treatments like Invisalign at the direction of your dentist can be worthwhile, too. So, be sure to incorporate all of the above into your healthy lifestyle, not just for a week or two, but forever.