Oftentimes, a beautiful smile is correlated with a healthy smile. While bright, perfectly straight teeth may seem to be in perfect health, that isn’t always the care. However, a less-than-perfect smile can be in great health! For most of our patients, the goal is to have both at the same time.
As dentists, our first priority is to help patients achieve optimal oral health. Once we’ve met that goal, we are happy to help our patients create a picture-perfect smile through cosmetic dental treatments.
Gaining and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile starts at home. Here are seven tips from our Denver dentist to help you achieve your smile goals:
1. Brush and floss daily
This basic rule of oral hygiene is essential to a healthy and beautiful smile. The rules are the same for everyone:
- Brush in the morning and evening for two minutes each time
- Be thorough—use circular motions to clean the front back and chewing surface of each tooth
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss right before bed
So many patients of all ages neglect flossing—the number one method for preventing gum disease. It only takes 48-72 hours for plaque to harden, so if you aren’t flossing every day, the plaque between your teeth is regularly turning into tartar, wreaking havoc on your gums.
2. Use a dentist-recommended mouthwash
Talk to a dentist about your smile goals so he or she can recommend a mouthwash that helps you reach them! In general, patients should use an antimicrobial mouthwash. Those with sensitive teeth and gums should avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Still, not all mouthwashes are created equal. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance before purchasing.
3. Limit stain-causing food and beverages
Patients who desire a bright, white smile should be careful about eating foods and drinking beverages that stain their teeth. These include:
- Coffee
- Black tea
- Tomato sauce
- Red wine
- Soda
- Soy sauce
- Berries
- Red peppers
To reduce stains, drink these beverages through a straw.
4. Replace your toothbrush often
A worn-down toothbrush won’t clean teeth as well as one with fresh bristles. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Frayed bristles are also much more likely to cultivate fungus or bacteria.
You may be brushing too hard if you find that you need to replace your toothbrush more frequently.
5. Break bad habits
Cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and dental damage are all more likely when a person has one or more of these habits:
- Nail biting
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Alcoholism
- Using teeth as tools
- Chewing ice
Talk to your dentist about the best ways to quit these habits so you can enjoy healthy, beautiful teeth.
6. Stay hydrated
Few things are more important for your oral and overall health than drinking enough water throughout the day. For your mouth, water is especially important because it helps remove food particles from between the teeth and encourages saliva production.
When a person is dehydrated, they are more likely to experience dry mouth, cavities, and gum disease. To maintain a healthy mouth, try to reduce your intake of caffeinated and sugary beverages.
7. Maintain good overall health
Your overall health has a direct impact on your oral health and vice versa. Diabetes, hormonal issues, and heart disease typically go hand-in-hand. Exercising, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious foods are essential to a healthy mouth and body.
Of course, visiting your general practitioner for check-ups and your dentist for regular dental exams and cleanings are also imperative.
Visit Our Denver Dentist
Don’t wait any longer to achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Contact our team of compassionate dental professionals today at (303) 534-2626 to schedule an appointment.
