Everyone wants to have a smile that they can be proud of, but keeping your teeth bright and healthy is no easy task. Over the years, you might struggle with a wide variety of cosmetic issues ranging from deep brown stains to gaps between your teeth. Here are a few tips that will help you smile with confidence and improve your oral health.
Lift Stains
While some tooth discoloration is caused by genetic conditions, most stains are the result of second-rate oral hygiene habits. All of the foods and drinks that you consume throughout the day will slowly begin to stain your teeth if you don’t regularly brush, floss, and use mouthwash. The safest way to lift those external stains is to schedule a whitening treatment with a local dentist.
Straighten Your Teeth
Unfortunately, no amount of brushing and flossing is going to straighten your teeth. Those who are struggling with gaps between their teeth or a crooked smile should speak with an orthodontist about their treatment options. These dental specialists offer a wide variety of treatments and services including traditional metal braces, invisible plastic aligners, and ceramic braces. A comprehensive treatment plan could straighten your smile within just a few months.
Give Up Smoking
Very few habits are as bad for your smile as smoking. In addition to staining your teeth, smoking can impact the appearance of your gums as well. Smoking will also lower your immune system and increase your risk of unsightly cold sores. Those who are having trouble quitting should speak with a doctor about products that will minimize their cravings.
Drink Plenty of Water
One of the most effective ways to keep your teeth, gums, and lips healthy is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. A glass of cold water will wash away millions of germs and brighten your teeth. It is also going to remove any lingering food debris that might be stuck between your teeth. As a general rule, you should try to drink at least eight full glasses of water per day.
Consider Veneers or Crowns
For more severe cosmetic issues, you might need to consider dental veneers or crowns. Both of these devices are typically made from porcelain, and they completely cover chips, stains, gaps, and other blemishes. With the proper oral hygiene habits, veneers and crowns last for decades. Once they are in your mouth, you will most likely completely forget that they are there. You can also easily have them replaced if they ever become chipped or stained.
Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you, and you should be doing everything in your power to keep your teeth vibrant, straight, and healthy. In addition to these few tips, you also need to visit your dentist at least once a year for deep cleaning services and a thorough inspection of your mouth.
About the author:
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer and blogger for business, home, and family niches. Dixie lives in Phoenix, Arizona, and is the proud mother of three beautiful girls and wife to a wonderful husband.