10 ways to improve your smile

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that having a healthy mouth is not only good for your oral health but your overall health too. However, improving your smile can have a knock-on effect on many aspects of your life, not just health! Feeling confident when smiling can mean better luck in your career, finally having the confidence to go on that date and generally having a more positive mind-set in your every-day life.

As part of National Smile Month, we have put together 10 top tips to improve your smile:

1. Floss daily

Flossing is necessary for a healthy smile as it helps to prevent tooth decay, tooth loss and gum disease…which is probably not the smile you’re looking for! Flossing removes plaque between the teeth, where a toothbrush just can’t reach.

2. Visit us regularly

Don’t skip your check-ups! Yes, we love to see you and make sure your oral health is in top form. Even if you feel like you’re doing a fine job on your oral hygiene routine and have no pain, make sure to see us regularly, as we can spot potential problems before they become real ones!

3. Stop smoking!

An obvious one, but not only does the habit harm your health (high risk of oral cancer, lung cancer & gum disease) it also harms your smile. Nicotine and tar leave unattractive yellow stains that over time discolour the tiny cracks in the tooth enamel. On top of staining, the risk of cavities is increased and you’re left with bad, smoker’s breath. Quit today for a smoke-free smile!

4. Leave out the red wine, coffee & tea

Similarly to smoking, these drinks can stain your teeth. Come and see us for a clean and polish, to help get rid of some of that staining. Also, drinking through a straw & drinking water afterwards can help to reduce staining, as the dark liquid does not sit on your teeth for a long period between meals.

5. Teeth whitening

Come and see us for a consultation on teeth whitening. However, beware not to use any DIY kits, as dentists or another regulated dental professionals are the only ones who are able to legally perform tooth whitening safely! Don’t put your oral health at risk; it’s just as easy to book an appointment with us for a safe treatment.

6. Think about straightening your teeth

Like we said in our last blog post, these days more and more adults are getting orthodontic treatment, as there are so many options available, e.g. Invisalign etc. Get in touch with us to find out what would be the best treatment for you.

7. Invest in a good toothbrush

Whether you like the traditional manual toothbrush or a more modern electric one, make sure your brush (or head) is no more than 3 months old, as after then the bristles start to break down and don’t clean your teeth as well.

8. Water, water, water

Water is the healthiest drink for your smile and body. It helps to keep teeth clean and discourages tooth decay.

9. Eat snacks wisely

Now, we’re not saying you should never have a pizza, a bite of chocolate or a pick ‘n’ mix at the cinema…after all even we all love to indulge now and then. However, make sure to eat these foods in moderation and at meal times. After eating, chew on sugar-free xylitol gum, drink a glass of water and wait at least 40 minutes to brush your teeth!

10. Wear a mouth-guard when playing sports

Mouth-guards help prevent injuries by cushioning blows to your lips, teeth and jaw when playing sports. Book an appointment with us, for a custom-made mouth-guard, which is the best option to fully protect your pearly whites!