A healthy mouth is the starting point for a healthy smile. Some people think they can only have a bright smile by spending untold amounts of money on special whiteners and a great deal of dental work. These things will enhance your smile, but when it comes down to it, the best thing you can do for your smile is to make sure your mouth is healthy. The following healthy smile tips will get you on the road to realizing that goal. Our team at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi can help you improve your dental health and maintain a healthy smile.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash has properties that will help eliminate the bacteria that cause plaque. Bacteria build up in your mouth throughout the day. As it grows, the bacteria turn to unsightly plaque and the beginning of an unhealthy mouth. By swooshing with mouthwash, you help eliminate the bacteria and end up with a fresh mouth. There are several mouthwash flavors, and many have added fluoride, which adds a layer of protection to your teeth.
Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods
Eating tooth-friendly food is another of the healthy smile tips that have added benefits. It also helps you maintain a healthy body. Avoid things like sugar and if you do choose candy, avoid anything hard or chewy that can leave behind residue between your teeth. Hard things like nuts can also be bad for tooth enamel, and anything acidic can eat away at the healthy enamel meant to protect your teeth. Try snacking more on fruits and vegetables, with an occasional indulgence of dark chocolate when the craving gets the best of you.
Drink Water
Every creature on Earth understands the health benefits of drinking water. Water keeps you hydrated, avoiding a dry mouth, which can damage your teeth. It also washes away debris left by other drinks and food. This creates fewer bacteria in your mouth. Many city water supplies have fluoride in their water. This adds even more protection to delicate tooth enamel. Whenever possible, drinking plain tap water is much better for a healthy mouth than bottled water.
Avoid Tobacco, Coffee, and Red Wine
These all eventually stain your teeth. In attempting to remove the stains, you subject your teeth to harsh whitening products that can damage the enamel, leaving you vulnerable to cavities. It is preferable to eliminate all three but keeping coffee and red wine to a minimum can also be beneficial. One of the issues with coffee and red wine is the acidic nature of both. If you do indulge, try drinking a glass of water afterward to rinse away the acid.
Use a Proper Toothbrush
Dentists use to suggest you use a medium toothbrush but have since changed their opinion. A soft bristle toothbrush is easier on tooth enamel. It cleans just as well and does much less damage. Make sure you brush at least twice a day and floss the same amount. If you don’t want to use a manual toothbrush, there are numerous electronic toothbrushes on the market that can effectively clean your teeth without putting too much wear and tear on the surface. The most important thing about brushing and flossing is setting a schedule and keeping it up.
We Can Help Your Smile Shine
Here at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi, we love to see you smile. One of the best healthy smile tips is to see your dentist for regular cleanings and exams. Contact us today at 361-986-1117 to make an appointment to do this. No amount of healthy smile tips will work if you don’t have a healthy mouth. A visit with us will get you on the correct path.
