Tips For A Healthy, Bright Smile

The health of your smile has a profound effect on your overall health. A beautiful smile helps you feel confident and self-assured, while poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, infection, and tooth loss. Here are some easy tips to follow for a healthy smile.

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly

For the best smile, brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Bacteria collects on your teeth throughout the day, so it’s important to remove them regularly. Doing so will decrease your risk of cavities and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with toothpaste that contains fluoride. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or whenever it begins to show wear.

In addition to brushing, your dentist may recommend using floss to clean between your teeth. If you have trouble flossing properly, ask your dentist about alternatives such as interdental brushes. These small brushes fit between your teeth and help remove plaque and food particles that are often missed when you brush alone.

• Use mouthwash

Mouthwash helps remove plaque and bacteria from teeth, and it can also help freshen breath. Brushing and flossing, of course, are still the best tools for maintaining a healthy smile and fresh breath. However, mouthwash can be an excellent addition to your brushing and flossing routine. 

• Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy can go a long way toward maintaining your oral health. Avoid eating too many sugary foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay. In addition to improving your overall health, a healthy diet will also help keep your teeth strong and healthy! 

• Drink plenty of water

You already know drinking water is good for your overall health. But did you know it’s also good for your teeth and gums? Drinking water helps flush food particles from your mouth and wash away bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. It also helps moisturize your mouth, which prevents dry mouth and bad breath. The more water you drink throughout the day, the more hydrated you’ll be. This means your saliva production will stay at normal levels, keeping your mouth clean and odor-free.

• Don’t use tobacco

Tobacco in any form — cigarettes, smokeless products, and even e-cigarettes — is incredibly harmful to your oral health. If you use tobacco of any kind, we strongly advise that you quit as soon as possible. Not only will it improve your general health, but it could also reduce your risk of oral cancer.

• Protect your teeth from injury

As you age, your teeth become weaker and more susceptible to fractures. Even minor accidents or injuries may compromise your dental health by causing chips, cracks, and other damage. Here are some ways you can protect your teeth from injury.

1. Wear a mouthguard while playing sports or doing any other physical activity where your mouth could be injured. Mouthguards can also help if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth while sleeping. During your regular checkups, your dentist will check for signs of Bruxism, which can damage your teeth over time. If diagnosed, they can recommend a custom night guard to prevent teeth grinding during the night. Wearing a mouthguard while you sleep can protect your teeth from injury and further wear and tear.
2. Be careful with your habits. For example, chewing on pencils and pens can crack your teeth, so stop the habit. And limit the amount of candy and soda you consume, as sugar promotes bacterial buildup and cavity formation.

• See your dentist for regular checkups

A dentist can diagnose gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health concerns when you visit them for routine cleanings and exams. Seeing a dentist at least every six months can help ensure you maintain good oral hygiene and catch any potential problems early when treatment is simpler and less expensive. Regular professional dental care can also help keep your teeth looking their best and whiter. Schedule an appointment with our office today!

To learn more about our dental services or to schedule a consultation with our dentist at our practice located at 2711 S Parker Rd., Aurora, CO 80014, call H&M Family Dentistry at (303) 353-9611. We will be happy to assist you further.