Your teeth are important for more than just chewing. Their appearance directly influences your self-esteem. Your smile is also one of the first things people notice about you. Unfortunately, two-thirds of Americans don’t like how their teeth look. If you’re not in love with your teeth, you don’t have to live with what you see in the mirror. Your dentist in Weatherford has 5 simple tips to improve your smile.
1. Floss Daily
If you think brushing your teeth twice a day is enough to keep your smile healthy, you’re mistaken. There are areas in your mouth your toothbrush can’t reach, like in between your teeth. Flossing is the only way to remove the harmful accumulations to prevent gum disease. With at least 50% of Americans having a form of the infection, it’s recommended you floss daily to lower your risk.
2. Visit Your Dentist
The American Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Unfortunately, one-third of Americans don’t follow this advice. If you aren’t visiting your dentist regularly for preventive care, you’re opening the door for many common oral health issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. Even if you don’t currently have any dental concerns, it’s best to visit your dentist at least twice a year.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is important for more than just staying hydrated. It’s also beneficial for cleansing your mouth from harmful bacteria in between brushing and flossing. It’s best to drink fluorinated water when possible to not only clean your teeth but also strengthen your enamel to make them more resistant to decay.
4. Improve Your General Health
There are certain health conditions that can impact your smile, like acid reflux. Over time, your stomach acid can erode your enamel. It’s best to keep your health a priority and treat any medical conditions properly. You’ll invest in a healthy mouth and body for optimal wellness.
5. Skip Your Morning Coffee
A cup of coffee is a great way to start the day, or maybe you prefer to relax with a glass of red wine after work. You might want to rethink drinking darkly pigmented beverages because they can lead to tooth discoloration. If you can’t skip your cup of coffee, it’s best to drink it through a straw to limit its contact with your teeth. Be sure to brush your teeth well afterward, or at the very least, rinse your mouth with water.
Improve Your Smile Today!
A healthy, beautiful smile isn’t achieved overnight, but there are several small things you can do that will produce big changes down the road. Take the time to invest in your dental health to enjoy a smile that lasts.
About Dr. Thomas J. Novak
Dr. Thomas J. Novak and his exceptional dental team are committed to providing world-class care. With over 15 years of experience, your cosmetic dentist in Weatherford has earned various certifications to help his patients achieve their best smile possible. No matter if you need a cleaning, orthodontics, or dental implants, Dr. Novak has the solutions for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.