How to Get a Brilliant Smile: 7 Simple Steps.
We all want to have a brilliant smile. Whether it be for the next cover of Forbes, your year book, or daily selfie—a smile is never out of style. An amazing smile can land you that dream job. A well-meaning smile can brighten someone’s day. A smile on your face can even change the way your day goes.
That perfect smile starts with good oral hygiene. Follow these pointers, and you’ll be well on your way to that brilliant smile.
The Right Toothbrush
It all starts with the right toothbrush. Dental professionals agree a soft bristled toothbrush is best for removing food particles and plaque from your teeth. You’ll want to be able to reach every last crack and cranny when brushing. This is why a small-headed brush is preferable.
When it comes to the style, shape of the head, curve of the handle, and bits and bobs, choose whatever is most comfortable for you. If the brush of your choosing allows you to reach each of your teeth and all your gums easily, you’ve made the right choice.
An electric toothbrush is also an option. Many feel the electric toothbrush helps them to do a better job with their teeth. While a regular toothbrush and a little knack can be just as effective as an electric toothbrush, whichever one you prefer is what is best for you. Be sure to replace your toothbrush as soon as it starts to show signs of wear. This is generally every 3 months.
Proper Brushing Technique
Get your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and start brushing. Both the gum line and entire tooth surface should be in contact with the bristles. Gently brush each tooth, and give it the attention it deserves. Aim to brush each row of teeth, front, sides, top and bottom, for a good 30 seconds each. With this formula in mind, you should be brushing for a proper 3 minutes.
Try to brush twice a day. Many dental hygienists recommend dry brushing your teeth while watching TV, in addition to your regular routine.
Brush Your Tongue
The foods you eat easily change the color of your tongue. Remember that birthday cake frosting that turned your tongue blue? Food particles and bacteria stick to your tongue in the same manner. The tongue’s uneven surface is ideal breeding ground for bacteria and foul odors.
You may be a brushing, flossing Nazi, but you could be doing your mouth a disservice if you are forgetting to brush the roof of your mouth and tongue.
Make Flossing a Habit
Purposeful and correct flossing techniques will clean your teeth in ways that are not possible with even the best of brushing skills. Flossing allows you to reach the hidden areas of your mouth. And it is in these places that oral problems begin. Nip that bacterial in the bud. Say “yes” to flossing. Make it a habit.
Cut Back on Sodas, Coffee, and Alcohol
Just about everyone loves at least the occasional drink or two. Be it in soda, coffee, or alcohol, additives, such as corn syrup and food dyes, can cause yourteeth to appear dull and lack luster. You’ve done the work of brushing and flossing. Brighten your teeth by replacing those drinks with water. Water will not only rinse debris from your mouth, but it will hydrate you longer than sugary drinks.
Eat Right
A diet high in calcium will do wonders for your teeth. It is essential to healthy teeth and bones. While a calcium supplement will do the trick, it is preferable to get the calcium you need through a balanced diet. Foods rich in calcium include, milk, yogurt, broccoli, and fortified orange juice. Copper, zinc, iodine, iron and potassium are also necessary for good oral hygiene.
Regular checkups are a must. And if you need to straighten your teeth, cosmetic dentistry options make getting an unforgettable smile even more achievable. Most of all, establishing proper oral hygiene habits will prevent future medical problems.
