It's no surprise that a bright, white smile makes you appear younger and more attractive. But your mouth is also the gateway to the body, which means the state of your teeth and gums affects your overall health. Follow these seven steps to a better smile.
1. Brush regularly. Brushing is the cornerstone of dental hygiene. It removes food particles that bacteria feed on, cleans teeth, and freshens breath.
2. Floss daily. Flossing removes the bacteria from in between your teeth that your toothbrush does not reach, which helps prevent gum disease. If you are prone to gum disease and cavities, consider visiting your dentist every four months.
4. Eat a healthy diet. Include plenty of dairy and other calcium-rich foods, like kale, in your diet. Calcium helps maintain strong bones and teeth, and the vitamin C in citrus fruits boosts gum health. Also as important as what you eat is what you don't eat ... avoid sugary and sticky foods that stick to the crevices of your teeth.
5. Don't smoke or use smokeless tobacco. People who smoke are four times more likely than nonsmokers to have gum disease, according to a study by the Journal of Periodontology. Using smokeless tobacco increases a person's risk for oral cancers, including lip, tongue, cheeks, and gums. On a smaller scale, tobacco products contribute to bad breath, or halitosis.
6. Whiten teeth. While the benefits are solely cosmetic, with today's products, whitening is a very safe procedure that will not harm your teeth as long as the products are used as directed and you are under the care of a dentist.
7. Contact Bravo Smile in Portland, Oregon and make an appointment!
Bravo Smile
503.222.3591
2075 SW First Ave. Suite 2K
Portland, OR 97201
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