Do you often cover your mouth when you laugh? Or find yourself holding back smiles in photos or when you’re out in public? Is it the appearance of your teeth that you’re self-conscious about? Perhaps they are not as pearly white as you’d like them to be, or you’re missing a tooth or two. Tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other dental issues can make you anxious about your smile.
But there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed of your teeth. With some care and attention, you can easily enhance your smile and regain the confidence you need to show off those pearly whites.
So, how do you care for your teeth and gums and achieve a brighter, whiter smile? Here are some ways that can help:
- Replace a Missing Tooth
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, roughly 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and more than 36 million have no teeth remaining. The tooth loss issue usually starts at 20 and increases with age. Whereas in North Carolina, 21% of adults aged 65 and older have lost their teeth.
If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth, your smile may not look its best. It will also make it difficult to chew and enjoy your favorite foods. You’ll also be more prone to gum disease and further tooth loss. Therefore, it is best to go for dental implants. You can easily find dental implant service providers in every state. So, if you are living in North Carolina, you can avail of one of the dental implants services in Charlotte, NC, and enhance your smile. A titanium post is inserted into the jawbone, acting as the missing tooth’s root. The implant is then covered with a dental crown, bridge, or denture, restoring the look and feel of your natural teeth.
- Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing and flossing go a long way in maintaining the health and appearance of your teeth and gums. Not only do they help prevent cavities, but they also keep bacteria from building up on your teeth, which can lead to gum disease.
An oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice a day every day will keep your smile healthy for years to come. Make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to slowly and gently brush your teeth. Next, use dental floss to reach between your teeth and the area around the gum line, removing any food particles or plaque buildup. You can use traditional floss or other interdental cleaning aids such as water flossers and toothpicks.
If regular brushes are too harsh for your teeth or gums, try an electric toothbrush for gentle cleaning. Remember to replace the brush head every three months, and make sure the brush head is soft enough for your teeth.
- Avoid Sugary and Starchy Foods
Sugary and starchy foods like candy, chocolate, cereals, and dried fruits can get stuck in your teeth or between them. As the bacteria in your mouth start to break down these foods, it produces acids that can cause cavities and damage your enamel. These foods also contain high amounts of sugar, which can lead to other oral health issues like gum inflammation and bad breath.
If you are craving sweets, switch these unhealthy foods with healthier options like fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only will they be better for your teeth, but they’ll also provide more nutrients and fiber. You’ll also have the option to snack on nuts packed with beneficial minerals like magnesium and zinc that your teeth need to stay healthy. Just make sure you brush your teeth after eating them.
- Moisturize your Lips
Suppose you want the perfect smile, dry and chapped lips are certainly not part of the package. They are unsightly and can cause inflammation and irritation and make you more prone to infection.
Keep your lips moisturized by using a quality lip balm containing SPF that helps protect them from the sun’s harsh rays. You can also apply a natural, petroleum-free lip balm like beeswax or coconut oil to keep your lips soft and supple. These are excellent options that won’t dry out your lips or contain any harsh chemicals.
Make sure you apply the moisturizer regularly throughout the day, especially if you’re often exposed to wind or cold weather.
- Quit Smoking Tobacco
Tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide are harmful substances found in cigarettes. They can damage your gums and teeth, leading to dental problems and even tooth loss. They also stain your teeth and cause bad breath, which you cannot clear out, no matter how much you brush and floss. Smoking also causes the melanin in your lips and gums to darken. They may appear purple, dark brown, blotchy, or black.
Quitting smoking will help you avoid the above problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy. You’ll also live a healthier lifestyle and have a beautiful smile that you won’t want to hide.
- Use Straws While Drinking Beverages
Using straws while consuming sugary or acidic beverages can help protect your teeth from the corrosive effects of those liquids. The sugary or acidic liquid bathes your teeth in damaging acids when you drink without a straw. Those acids take little time to wear down your tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Drinking through a straw helps keep these liquids away from your teeth, protecting them from potential damage. Make sure to sip slowly, and don’t take big gulps when using straws. It will help keep liquids from pooling in your mouth and damaging your teeth. The best straws to use are paper, bamboo, metal, or glass.
Conclusion
Caring for your gums and teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health and achieving a vibrant, healthy smile. Make sure to brush and floss twice daily, drink plenty of water, reduce sugary snacks and drinks, and avoid tobacco products. You must also moisturize your lips to prevent them from becoming chapped, and use straws when drinking sugary beverages to protect your teeth.
Besides, if you have a missing tooth, don’t wait to replace it. Dental implants are the most effective way to restore your smile. With these simple steps, you can ensure your smile will stay healthy and beautiful for years.
