Your smile is one of the first things that others notice about you. Crooked or buck teeth, yellow stains, and receding gums can all make you want to keep your mouth closed and hide your teeth. Fortunately, no one has to settle for unsightly teeth. There are lots of fixes for problem teeth and some that you probably didn’t even know existed.
Here’s a complete guide to taking care of your teeth so that you can have a pearly-white smile that you are proud of.
Why Does The Appearance Of Your Teeth Matter So Much?
Having straight, attractive teeth is important for several reasons. For one thing, it boosts your self-esteem and confidence, especially in social situations. You may feel embarrassed if you have gaps in your teeth or gums that are too visible. Also, taking care of issues like crowded or crooked teeth can help with speech and eating.
The appearance of your teeth can also impact things like potential job opportunities, as one woman interviewed by NPR experienced. She kept getting passed over for jobs because her front teeth were crooked and broken.
Secret #1: Master the Basics
The first step in getting a perfect smile is to practice great oral hygiene. This can help prevent things like tooth decay, stained teeth, and bad breath. What does that look like?
- Brush your teeth twice a day. Many people neglect to brush their teeth at night as they can barely muster the energy to crawl into bed. Bedtime brushing is the most important, as it gets rid of debris that tends to collect throughout the day. You should also brush earlier in the day. Use a fluoride toothpaste and high-quality electric toothbrush if possible. If not, a manual toothbrush with soft bristles is ideal. Make sure you brush the back of your teeth, as well as your tongue.
- Floss once per day. Or use a water flosser. Flossing helps you reach areas of your teeth that toothbrushes can’t get to. It removes plaque, buildup, and harmful bacteria that toothbrushes miss.
- Use mouthwash every day. Many people skip using a mouthwash. But, they help reduce acid in the mouth and clean around the gums. Choose an alcohol-free antibacterial version.
- Replace your toothbrush. Get a new toothbrush at three-month intervals. If the bristles are frayed, replace the brush sooner.
Secret #2: Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Some people only see a dentist when there is a problem. But, dental cleanings and exams are necessary for good oral health. Everyone needs them to prevent problems — even those who practice great oral hygiene at home need regular dental care. How often should you go? That depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Many people see the dentist every six months. But, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist. They may want to see you more frequently if you have gum disease or other dental problems like excessive tooth decay.
Secret #3: Go for a Consultation With an Orthodontist
An orthodontist can fix a number of issues with your teeth that your regular dentist can’t including:
- Buck teeth
- Teeth gaps
- Crooked teeth
- Misaligned jaws
- Overbite
- Crowded teeth
- Open bite
Fixing these issues can be a really powerful confidence booster. Possible treatment options may include:
- Braces – These are the metal braces that most people picture when they think of braces. However, modern metal braces are much smaller and thus much less noticeable compared to the older ones.
- Clear braces – These are made from clear brackets and tooth-colored wire, making them much less noticeable compared to traditional braces.
- Invisalign – These thin clear aligners offer an attractive way to transform your smile. These aligners are customized to your bite and can be removed to eat and drink. They are also less painful than braces.
While there are a number of clear aligner companies popping up online, it’s always best to visit a professional for hands-on orthodontic treatment. There are lots of horror stories from people who have gone the online route for braces. This could lead to irreversible damage. An orthodontist will provide safe and effective treatment.
Secret #5: Maintain a Healthy Diet
What does a healthy diet have to do with a great smile? Lots, it turns out! Diet affects the tissues of the mouth, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Eating lots of vegetables is a great way to maintain healthy teeth. That’s because eating these foods triggers the production of saliva, which helps to remove food particles and clean your mouth.
Rather than reaching for coffee when you want something warm to drink, consider unsweetened tea. Green and black teas both have ingredients that help fight plaque. Finally, drink plenty of water to keep your mouth properly hydrated.
The worst foods for your teeth include chewy, sour candies because they have acids that can damage teeth. Carbonated drinks, even diet ones, are also problematic because the acids damage the tooth enamel.
Secret #6: Brighten Your Teeth
If your teeth are yellowed or discolored from coffee or wine, whitening them can brighten your smile and make you feel more attractive and confident. White teeth may even impact how others perceive you. One study found that those with whiter teeth were seen as more financially successful and trustworthy.
You can use whitening toothpaste and treatments at home, and these are pretty effective at removing mild stains. For moderate staining, visit your dentist for professional in-office whitening.
Secret #7: Stop Smoking and Drinking
Smoking cigarettes and drinking excessive alcohol are both bad for your teeth. Giving up these two habits can enhance your overall well-being, as well as your oral health. Smoking can cause your teeth to turn yellow and result in bad breath as well. Nicotine use is also a leading cause of gum disease and oral cancer.
Alcohol is also bad for your teeth because it dries out the mouth, which interferes with saliva production. Long-term alcohol use can lead to tooth decay, staining, and periodontitis, which is characterized by gum recession, and excessive plaque.
If you need help quitting smoking or reducing alcohol use, see your doctor.
Secret #8: Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is so important for your general health. And, it’s no different when it comes to oral health. Water helps improve your smile in several ways. It flushes debris out of teeth, which helps keep them clean and discourages tooth decay.
Here’s a tip: Skip the fancy bottled water. Stick to plain old tap water instead. It contains fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay.
If you (or your child) frequently consume soda or sugar-laden energy drinks, cut down or stop. Besides being unhealthy for your general health, these drinks can really take a toll on your teeth. The sugar (acid) content can erode the enamel on your teeth and lead to cavities. Ditch the cola, and drink plain water instead.
Secret #9: Deal With Grinding
If you grind your teeth (bruxism) or clench your jaw while asleep, it can lead to problems like tooth loss and damage. One of the biggest triggers for bruxism is stress and anxiety. Therefore, find ways to relax, like meditation or yoga. Next, consider a nightguard. Your dentist or orthodontist can make a custom-fit night guard that is customized for your mouth.
Secret #10: Limit Coffee
Do you find it difficult to function without a cup of coffee or two every morning? Coffee can keep you attentive and alert. The downside? It can affect your teeth in the long term. Coffee causes teeth staining, and because it’s highly acidic, it also erodes tooth enamel. Coffee also dries out the mouth. This can contribute to cavities, as saliva helps clean the mouth.
You don’t have to give up your daily cup of joe entirely. You can cut down and also brush your teeth 30 minutes after drinking coffee.
Final Thoughts
Regular oral hygiene, dental checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and orthodontic treatments can help you have a smile that you will feel confident to show off.