Your smile says a lot
about you, and if yours is preventing you from expressing yourself, it’s time
to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
The American Academyof Cosmetic Dentistry explains that over 96% of people who responded to a
recent survey believed that a beautiful smile was more appealing. In fact, a
white and bright smile can even make you look younger. Of course, good oral
health goes above and beyond looks.
The mouth is the
gateway to the rest of your body and if you do not brush twice, floss once each
day and see your dentist twice a year, the rest of your health could be
suffering.
According to yourdentist, there are some steps that you can take to improve your smile.
Brushing truly is the
most important step when it comes to good oral hygiene as it removes the food
particles that feed the bacteria. Brushing twice a day also cleans your teeth
and gives you fresh breath. Use a fluoride toothpaste as it helps to strengthen
your teeth as well. Your dentist recommends that you brush for two minutes. Use
a timer, or purchase an electric toothbrush with a built in timer.
Just like brushing,
flossing removes the particles and plaque between your teeth that a toothbrush
cannot reach. Flossing also helps prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease as
well. Because you do not produce as much saliva while you sleep, your dentist
recommends that you floss just before bedtime as it leaves your mouth less vulnerable
to bacteria attack.
Because your dentist
can spot gum disease in its infancy, it is vital that you see your dentist
twice a year. If gingivitis is caught early enough it can be treated and
reversed. Some people are more prone to gum disease and should schedule dental
checkups quarterly. People with other health problems such as HIV, diabetes and
cancer should also visit the dentist more frequently.
In-between checkups
check your mouth for trouble spots. Non-healing sores, bleeding or swollen gums,
or pimples on your gums are all signs that you need to schedule an appointment with
your dentist.
Keep your smile
bright and healthy by quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet that is rich
in calcium. Foods such as kale and sardines also contain calcium and should be
included as part of your regular diet.
For more information
regarding a healthy smile, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.
