Your pearly whites are the first thing people notice when they see you. That’s why it’s important to take good care of your teeth. In this article, we will share 4 ways to improve your smile.
Find a “Dentist Near Me”
One of the first places to go when you’re in need of better dental health is your dentist. The dentist can solve many dental problems, and will always be there for you. The dentist can help with tooth decay, teeth pain, toothache, oral cancer, gum disease, and more. Whether you’re in serious need of dental work, need to schedule routine dental cleanings, or you want to improve your smile, begin your search by finding a dentist local to you. Since dental health is so important, having a dentist conveniently located by you makes it a snap to visit them, without the need to schedule a full day off of work or in the case of children, a day off of school.
Recognize the Importance Dental Health
Dental health is something that is often taken for granted. Yet, it is the foundation to a beautiful smile. We only think about it when we experience pain, or when we go for our regular check-ups. However, dental health is something that should be taken seriously, as it can affect our overall health. Poor dental health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s Disease. That’s why it’s important to make sure we’re taking care of our teeth and gums!
One of the best ways to maintain dental health is to visit your dentist regularly. The dentist can help with everything from tooth decay to gum disease. They can also provide advice on how to improve your dental health at home. In addition, sure you’re brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. (We’ll get to those topics next!)
While effective dental health starts with your dentist, there are steps you can take at home to improve your smile.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Toothbrushes and toothpaste are two of the most important tools for maintaining dental health. A good toothbrush will remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, while a good toothpaste will fight cavities and bad breath. It’s important to find a toothbrush and toothpaste that work well for you, and that you enjoy using.
When choosing a toothpaste, look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal and one that contains fluoride. If you have sensitive teeth, some toothpastes can help relieve sensitivity.
Brush your teeth twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. It’s important to brush for two minutes each time, using gentle, circular motions. Don’t “scrub” or harshly brush – you’ll end up causing damage to your gums.
Finally, make sure to replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if you’re seeing frayed bristles or have been ill with cold or flu. Our Hanson Dental team can advise you on the best toothbrush and toothpaste to use for your needs.
Flossing
Flossing is an important part of dental health, as it helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. It’s important to floss at least once a day.
To floss correctly, wrap the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about an inch of space between your hands. Gently guide the floss between your teeth, using a back-and-forth motion. Curve the floss around the base of each tooth and use a gentle up-and-down motion to remove plaque and bacteria. Be careful not to force the floss into spaces between your teeth – a gentle touch is important, and your teeth and gums will thank you for it!
What type of floss should you use? There are a variety of flosses with different flavors as well as waxed or unwaxed. If you’re unsure of which is best for you, please ask us.
Looking for a quick way to add some extra sparkle to your smile?
Our “Winter White” sale for our in-office Opalescence Boost whitening treatment is on now until end of February 2022 for $299! (This is normally a $399 service!)
So, there you have it – 4 ways to improve your smile. If you’re in need of more involved dental work, including cosmetic dentistry, don’t hesitate to visit us here at Hanson Dental. We’ll be happy to help!
Image credit: Ridofranz / iStock / Getty Images Plus.