A bright smile can open doors. It may be the bridge that takes you from one point to another.
Sparkly white and healthy-looking teeth build up your confidence and self-image, and can be a good aid in building lasting and happy relationships.
But not everyone has the confidence to flash their teeth in a big bright welcoming smile.
The power to do this begins with knowing that your teeth are healthy and in great shape.
But good oral health goes beyond having a nice smile or great looking dentition.
Besides depriving you of the joy and confidence of flashing a charming smile, unhealthy teeth can also lead to diseases. Notably, it can affect your ability to speak or eat well.
So how can you prevent such awkward situations or unpleasant oral conditions? A starting point is to seek professional examination or consultation. You can visit Tiger Smile Dental for expert advice on your dental health.
But here are five things that can help you avoid tooth problems and improve your oral health.
- Get a good toothbrush and brush regularly
A basic way to achieve this is to brush your teeth at least twice a day. First, before going to bed at night and at least once during the day.
Brushing the teeth before sleep at night prevents buildup of plaque, decay and or diseases that can affect your gum. It is also good practice to brush after eating. However, if this is not possible, rinse your mouth well. This helps remove food particles that may be lodged in-between your teeth.
- Brush the right way
Brushing the right way requires the use of a good toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. This also entails brushing both the outer and inner part of the tooth with a gentle back and forth stroke. It is also important to clean the tongue, the top and in-between the teeth.
A key tool in cleaning your teeth is the toothbrush. Experienced dentists recommend changing toothbrush every two to three months. Once a toothbrush is worn, it may not clean well.
- And brush your tongue too…
It’s easy to forget the tongue is a key component to keeping your teeth and mouth looking and feeling healthy and fresh. Brushing the tongue helps to fight bacteria in the mouth. If you’re not presently using it, when next you want to get a toothbrush, try getting one with a cheek and tongue cleaner which helps remove bacteria when brushing.
- Change your toothbrush after 3 months
Toothbrushes don’t last forever. The American Dental Association recommends that you change your toothbrushes every 3 months to avoid germs spreading and bacteria festering on your brush. Gross! Isn’t it? That’s why you should see your dentist to recommend a new brush for you at least 4 times in a year.
Pay close attention to your diet and dental health
To enjoy good dental health it is important to avoid unhealthy habits. A big no-go area is tobacco, which can lead to oral cancer and many other health complications associated with it.
In addition, beverages such as alcohol, soda or coffee can lead to dental health issues. They can cause tooth decay or gum diseases.
Some beverages also contain additives and food colouring substances, which can leave your teeth discoloured. It is important to limit their intake if you cannot avoid consuming them.
- Take calcium and other vitamins
Calcium aids in the development of the bones and is good for the teeth as well. By taking milk, orange juice and other dairy products, you increase your calcium intake.
Vitamin D also helps in improving the health of the gums and teeth, while Vitamin B complex helps to prevent the gums and teeth from bleeding and cracking.
- Kiss more
Uh? Yes, you read right. Go, kiss more for a healthier teeth and a more confident smile. I know you’re still curious; so here’s why. When you kiss, the saliva in your mouth increases, which is good for your oral health, because it rinses the mouth and helps keep cavity away from the teeth.
It’s sure more fun now kissing with that extra advantage, right (*winks*). But don’t sweat it if you’re not in a relationship. Just occasionally get your teeth busy with some sugar-free gums. It’s just as effective, even if it may not be as thrilling as kissing your romantic partner.
- Visit your dentist
Visiting your dentist at least twice a year is beneficial. During such visits, a detailed examination may be conducted, including x-rays if required. This can help detect any problem before it gets out of hand, and also take care of existing dental issues.
Conclusion
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is a big step towards that bright and friendly smile. To improve your dental health, visit an expert today.