Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. And it's no wonder. A smile is contagious. It has the ability to make you smile, and it can make those around you smile as well. It can help you make friends. A smile can also boost your confidence and help you in your personal and professional life. Here are a few healthy practices to have the best smile and oral health.

Practice good oral hygiene

Excellent oral hygiene habits should start early in life and should continue to be practiced consistently throughout adulthood. Brushing twice a day, flossing once per day, and making sure to visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning are all great ways to keep your smile healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Also, floss once a day to remove debris between teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. When you skip flossing, you miss cleaning about 30% of your tooth's surfaces. That's a lot! Leaving plaque and food particles between teeth provides the perfect conditions for tooth decay and cavities. Plaque also causes gum disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Replace your toothbrush regularly

Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or after an illness. Brushes with frayed bristles can irritate your gums and teeth, whereas newer brushes can remove more plaque than worn-out ones. 

Use a mouthwash

Mouthwash can help kill germs and bacteria in the mouth, leaving your breath feeling fresh and clean. You can use mouthwash before or after brushing your teeth or after meals and snacks where you've eaten foods that tend to leave plaque behind. When used properly, mouthwash can help protect your oral health. 

Eat a healthy diet and limit your sugar intake

It's important for your overall health to limit the amount of sugar you consume each day. Sugary foods and drinks increase your risk for tooth decay, while healthy foods tend to promote better overall mouth health. Some foods that are good for your teeth include crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, and cucumbers. These foods help to remove plaque and stimulate saliva production. Other foods like cheese act as a natural cleanser by pulling stains off of teeth! Foods and drinks to avoid include soda, candy, hard candies, cookies, dried fruits, and gummy or sticky foods. If you're craving something sweet, reach for a piece of fruit or some sugar-free gum. Find more tips on a healthy mouth on our blog or by giving us a call today!

See your dentist for checkups

With regular checkups, your dentist can spot problems before they even occur. A routine checkup also includes teeth cleanings. At a checkup, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup and examine your smile for any signs of cavities or gum disease. We recommend seeing a dentist once every six months for a cleaning and checkup. These visits can keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent any problems from developing in the future.

Wish to schedule your appointment with the Dentist in Dallas for any dental procedures? Visit our Dallas dentist at One Health Dental, located at 4801 S Buckner Blvd Suite 800, Dallas, TX 75227, or book your consultation today by calling us at (214) 275-4808.