Levi KeswickYour smile is often the first thing people see and recognize after shaking hands. Taking good care of teeth has been a long-fostered tradition throughout human history. There is even evidence suggesting how our ancestors used a toothbrush (not like the modern ones we have today), and even mint leaves for fresh breath. This attention to the good look of teeth shows the importance of keeping your smile perfect, which brings up the question; what are the many ways in which you can take good care of your smile? Most of us are familiar with the basics, but nevertheless, we’ll discuss further the text below.
A quality toothbrush
Regular brushing protects our gums and removes bacteria and dental plaque. A good toothbrush has the right size, shape, handle, and bristles. Big isn’t always better, and the same goes for a toothbrush. As a rule, it must correspond to the size of the mouth. With a smaller brush, we have easier access to all dental surfaces, including the molars. The handle is chosen according to personal preference, and we have to make sure that it is not too thin and that it provides support for the thumb. And finally, the bristles: a brush with (very/ultra) soft and rounded bristles is the safest and most comfortable choice. It contains fine fibers that, with light pressure, slide into the space between the gums and the surface of the teeth and perform their work softly. A dentist’s tip: replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months!
Toothpaste with fluoride
When buying toothpaste, you should be attracted not only by the taste and whitening effect, but also by the fluoride content. Fluoride collects in tooth enamel and makes it harder and stronger to protect against bacteria and cavities.
Going regularly to the dentist
Imagine you lived in a time when the dentist was also a barber, taking out teeth at night and cutting hair during the day. All this without the help of anesthesia. Thankfully, we have the privilege of being born in a modern age where dentistry has become so advanced that we are now able to perform surgery, extract cysts, and save decaying teeth. However, for some reason, most of us are reluctant to go. Like the folks at boutiquedental.co.nz explain, everything from gum surgery, whitening, root canal treatment, and periodical treatments is now possible with no pain and minimal time consumption. For the first time in history, going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a painful endeavor filled with fear and anxiety.
Checking your teeth regularly can prevent the appearance of serious complications and decay. Also, another thing to keep in mind is that those rotten teeth are often associated with migraines and other health issues, which is why you should act immediately if your last visit was years ago.
Flossing is just as important as brushing
Many people neglect to floss, but it is a necessary part of the daily routine. Flossing is not only cleaning the interdental spaces (where food remains accumulated), but much more than that. It prevents the formation of plaque and helps prevent inflammation. Don’t let the difficulty of flossing stop you!
Clean your tongue
The white residue that often covers our tongue is a breeding ground for various bacteria and viruses. Over time, the bacteria are transferred to the teeth and gums, where they can cause great damage. The accumulation of bacteria on the teeth causes tooth decay and gum inflammation. Prevent discomfort by brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
Use mouthwash
It is recommended that rinsing the oral cavity be part of daily hygiene. Mouthwash helps reduce acid in the mouth, mineralizes teeth, and cleans “problematic” areas where the brush does not reach. Mouthwash should especially be used by children and the elderly because complete cleaning can be difficult for them.
A healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle brings us satisfaction and a smile on our faces. And our responsibility is whether the smile will be white or not. If we want it to be, we have to limit our intake of substances that contain sugar. Sugar turns into acid in the mouth, which dissolves tooth enamel. Coffee, tea, and even the consumption of certain substances act similarly to sugar, which still slightly stains the enamel (tannins). If coffee is a “necessary” part of your morning routine, be sure to drink a glass of water afterward, which removes the color from the surface of your teeth.
With these helpful tips, you’ll take good care of your teeth and prevent any complications afterward. Make sure to follow them all, and enjoy your beautiful smile.
