Everything You Need to Know for a Kissable Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day! Here are 7 ways to keep your smile white, healthy and kissable for your valentine.

1.  Visit the dentist regularly.

It’s important to see the dentist at least once every six months for an exam and thorough cleaning. Routine visits allow the dentist to catch minor issues before they become big problems. Having a cleaning twice a year is a great way to stay on top of your oral health because the dental assistant has an opportunity to assess your brushing and flossing techniques and make recommendations.

2. Brush and floss

By brushing your teeth twice a day, you remove food and plaque that builds up. Plaque contains bacteria that releases enamel damaging bacteria. Flossing daily is just as essential because you can easily remove particles between teeth. Don’t forget to clean your tongue too. Use your toothbrush or a special tongue cleaner to keep your breath smelling fresh.

3.  Avoid these foods

Stay away from sugary foods that will damage your tooth enamel. Also avoid sticky gum that can pull out fillings and crowns. Even healthy sticky foods can be dangerous because they stay on your teeth and can cause decay. Eat them with your main meal when you produce more saliva which can help wash it away.

4.  Clean your toothbrush

Keeping your toothbrush clean prevents illness. There are numerous toothbrush sanitizers on the market. The American Dental Association also recommends rinsing your toothbrush well after use and replacing it every three to four months. Never share your toothbrush with another person because of the risk of contamination.

5. Don’t smoke

Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco are dangerous habits that increase the risk of developing certain cancers. They also can lead to gum disease because of the way they affect the attachment of bone and soft tissue. Smokers are also more susceptible to periodontal disease because it interferes with gum tissue cells. In addition, smoking turns teeth yellow and makes your breath smell bad– neither which is conducive to celebrating Valentine’s Day. If you do smoke or chew tobacco, quit now.

6. Replace damaged teeth with crowns

A crown covers a weak or damaged tooth and is cemented into place. Dentists apply crowns to strengthen teeth and to improve the appearance, shape or alignment of teeth. Porcelain crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth for a seamless look. It typically takes two visits to get a crown applied. During the first visit the dentist takes an impression and prepares the existing tooth, covering it with a temporary crown. When the permanent crown arrives from the lab it is cemented in during the second visit.

7. Consider teeth whitening

Whiten yellowed or discolored teeth with a non-invasive teeth whitening treatment. During the process, the natural tooth enamel is bleached to give your teeth a bright, white appearance. Whether you have the treatment in the dentist’s office or apply the trays at home, the results can be impressive.

Contact Craig Armstrong, DDS to schedule an appointment and make this Valentine’s Day special by improving your smile.