New Delhi: If you’re looking for a smile that is both beautiful and healthy, you’ll have to take care of your oral health much like you take care of your skin: using a mixture of gentle preventative care, prompt treatment for small issues when they pop up, and beauty treatments when necessary. Here are some easy things, tips for a healthy and beautiful smile you can do.
Drink plenty of water
Water is the healthiest drink for your smile and your body. It helps flush teeth clean and discourages tooth decay. Tap water is the best choice as it has the recommended dosage of fluoride. Many times bottled water comes from a source where the fluoride levels are not monitored or contain no fluoride at all. A healthy level of fluoride promotes tooth health and discourages decay.
Brush your teeth twice a day
This is a given, but many people still need to be reminded to brush their teeth at least twice a day. Because plaque can harden into tartar, frequent brushing helps teeth to stay whiter and healthier than in people who brush less often. How you brush is also important. Angle the bristles toward the gumline at a 45-degree angle, with just enough pressure to make the tissue a lighter color. Gently make small strokes, focusing on only one or two teeth at a time. This will keep your gums healthy and remove the most plaque.
Eat healthy snacks.
It’s no secret that sugary foods can cause cavities, but they aren’t the only culprits. Carbohydrates, foods such as bread or pasta, are prone to sticking to your teeth. This exposes the surface of your teeth to the food for longer, and the carbohydrates quickly break down into sugars. One way you can fight this is by limiting the number of sugar- or carb-based snacks that you eat throughout the day.
Replace your toothbrush often.
The ADA recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if you notice that it is beginning to look frayed. As the toothbrush ages, the bristles begin to wear away, making them less effective at removing plaque from your teeth. The frayed bristles are also more prone to growing bacteria or fungus, making them unsanitary for you to use. A fresh toothbrush every once and a while does a better job at keeping your mouth cleaner and your breath fresher.
Take care of your oral hygiene.
Creating a great oral hygiene routine is the most crucial step towards keeping your mouth healthy. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using mouthwash daily. This protects your mouth from the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing your teeth does a great job of removing plaque from the surface of your teeth, but it can’t reach every area. This is why flossing and mouthwash are such important parts of maintaining a healthy mouth.
