Achieving a better smile is a significant goal for millions in the United States, with 60 percent of people hating how their smile looks in photographs. Gaining a beautiful smile is possible when you have the best advice and resources to help you maximize your dental hygiene.
The feeling of confidence and happiness when flashing your brilliant smile to a romantic partner or business colleague is impossible to top. You’ll walk into every room knowing your smile will add light to the space. The confidence you’ll gain from knowing how to get white teeth will carry over into all aspects of life.
The good news is that you’ve found the perfect guide to take steps toward a better smile. Continue reading to improve your dental hygiene today!
1. Brush and Floss
Brushing and flossing is a cliche request from every orthodontist, but it’s vital when working toward beautiful teeth and a radiant smile. Consistency is the most crucial aspect of caring for and maintaining your teeth.
Brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes is a good rule of thumb. Flossing once daily is also wise to remove plaque and protect the more vulnerable parts of your teeth and gums.
Consistent brushing and flossing to your dental hygiene regimen will do wonders for beautiful teeth and healthy gums. Avoid brushing aggressively to prevent accidental damage to your teeth.
2. Clean Your Tongue
Cleaning your tongue is beneficial when working toward a better smile. Many people brush and floss consistently, but only some take the extra step of cleaning their tongues. Cleaning your tongue should be added to your daily routine if you want to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile.
A dirty tongue causes more plaque and bacteria to take hold in your mouth. The bacteria in your mouth will produce bad breath and potential diseases. Find a quality tongue scraper to keep your mouth rid of bacteria and enjoy a stunning smile again.
3. Get Your Teeth Cleaned
Visiting the orthodontist to get your teeth cleaned is a fantastic way to perform preventative maintenance on your teeth while keeping them white and shiny. The dental cleaning cost is worth the health and cosmetic benefits for your teeth when taking steps to enjoy a better smile.
Brushing and flossing will rid your mouth of some plaque, but cleaning teeth at the dentist’s office will help you access the plaque in more difficult-to-reach spots. A dentist has the tools and experience necessary to target that plaque and provide a healthier environment for your teeth.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is another way to help your teeth and gums for a better smile. Dehydration is unhealthy for your skin, hair, and teeth. A lack of water in your body reduces saliva production and makes life easy for the bacteria in your mouth. Drinking water causes more saliva production, hydrated gums, and extra protection for your pearly whites.
You can prevent cavities and tooth decay by consciously drinking more water daily. It’s also beneficial to avoid beverage options that increase dehydration, like alcohol and energy drinks.
When consuming ample water, your teeth will look better, and your body will feel energized and healthy. It’s a critical tip for a better smile that you shouldn’t ignore.
5. Use Mouthwash
Anti-bacterial mouthwash is the best to use when working toward a beautiful smile. These mouthwash options are small and convenient, helping you take care of your teeth and gums at home or on the go. You can use them to rinse plaque out of your mouth and fight oral diseases that could damage your smile.
The best time to use your anti-bacterial mouthwash is after brushing and flossing, and timing your use after brushing helps strengthen tooth enamel. It’s also beneficial to rinse your mouth with mouthwash after eating lunch or a snack to prevent plaque from building up in your mouth.
6. Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth and health, and it’s best to leave it in the past when you commit to creating a better smile you love. Smoking damages and stains your teeth, causing a smile that harms your confidence and happiness.
Many smokers stain their teeth yellow. It’s also one of the top causes of tooth decay and loss. Avoid these potential issues by walking away from smoking and building a beneficial dental hygiene routine.
7. Eat a Clean Diet
Another tip to use when creating a better smile is making dietary changes. Diet plays a crucial role in determining the health of your teeth and gums. Foods that are high in calcium are an excellent path to take when creating a new meal plan.
Yogurt, milk, cheese, spinach, leeks, and broccoli are all tasty food options to consider if you want a beautiful smile. The calcium in these foods gives your body the nutrients it needs for strong and healthy teeth.
Knowing which foods and drinks to avoid is beneficial when prioritizing health and a better smile. Sugary foods cause plaque buildup and tooth decay. Avoid snacking candy and other junk food to improve your dental hygiene.
8. Consider Cosmetic Treatments
In addition to lifestyle changes and improved dental hygiene, consider adding cosmetic treatments to your list of options. Teeth whitening and braces are options to ask your dentist if you want to improve your smile and light up the room.
Cosmetic dentistry can resolve dozens of problems to help you get the desired smile. They’ll ensure you’re cared for, from veneers to teeth whitening treatments.
Enjoy the Confidence of a Better Smile
Working toward a better smile takes time and patience, but applying these tips will lead you toward success and confidence. Quit smoking and create a dental hygiene routine to keep your teeth white, shiny, and healthy.
Alter your diet to eat calcium-rich foods for stronger teeth, and avoid candy and junk food. Visit your dentist twice annually to get your teeth cleaned for a sparkling smile.
Your health and happiness are priceless, and it’s worthwhile to begin investing in them. Check out more of our Health guides and articles to find tips to maximize your health today!