Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you’re afraid to flash those pearly whites, you may need a bit of a refresher on dental hygiene. Keeping your smile both healthy and beautiful isn’t difficult, but it does require commitment.

Here are 5 tips for maintaining healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.

BRUSH YOUR TEETH PROPERLY

Yes, there’s a right and wrong way to brush your teeth. When brushing, keep the bristles at a 45-degree angle near your gum line. You want to brush both your teeth and your gums. Be sure to brush both sides of your teeth, as well as the chewing surface.

When you are finished with your teeth and gums, gently brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. This will keep bad breath at bay. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals.

FLOSS EVERY DAY

Brushing is great for cleaning the surface of your teeth, but it can’t reach in between your teeth where bacteria hides. Daily flossing will get rid of food residue that causes decay.

Use 18 inches of floss, and gently work it between each tooth, bringing it up around the tooth where it meets your gum line. Keep the floss angled into a C shape around the tooth, which covers more surface area and is less irritating to the gums.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET

A tooth-friendly diet includes lots of whole foods — fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and cheese. Avoid refined foods that are high in sugar.

Sugary soft drinks and alcoholic beverages should also be avoided. If you do indulge in these drinks, be sure to rinse your mouth with cool, clean water as soon as possible to rid your teeth of harmful residues.

VISIT YOUR DENTIST REGULARLY 

The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings and checkups every six months. Not only does this allow for strong cleaning of your teeth and gums, it also catches small dental problems before they have a chance to grow into big ones.

USE MOUTHWASH BEFORE BED

A fluoridated mouthwash can reach places that your toothbrush and floss can’t. You can use a mouthwash during the day when you can’t brush your teeth or right before bed. Allow the fluoride to sit on your teeth when you go to bed, and you will add another layer of protection to your tooth enamel.

Taking care of your teeth and mouth will go a long way toward keeping yourself healthy and allowing you to smile confidently. Want to learn more about protecting that beautiful smile? Give our dental office a call to schedule an appointment.