Six Steps to a Healthy Smile!

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s important to take care of it! Here are six simple steps you can take to maintain a healthy smile:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from in between your teeth.

3. Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

4. Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary snacks.

5. Quit smoking or using tobacco products.

6. Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night.

By following these tips, you can keep your smile looking its best for years to come!

Schedule an appointment with your dentist for a professional cleaning and check-up

Taking care of your oral health is a major priority, and keeping up with regular professional cleanings and check-ups plays a key role in preventative healthcare. Cary, NC is home to a number of excellent dentists who can provide you with the attention you need to keep your teeth happy and healthy. Scheduling an appointment will give you peace of mind that all the bases have been covered; from cleaning out built up plaque to catching any issues before they snowball. Don't wait, pick up that phone to start your journey towards a better smile!

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste

Taking care of your teeth is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, so make sure that you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. This will not only keep your breath fresh and free from bad odors, but it can also help to prevent cavities, reduce tartar and plaque buildup, and remove bacteria from the mouth. Fluoride also helps to strengthen enamel and prevents tooth decay. Taking this straightforward step every day can make a big difference in the long run when it comes to keeping teeth healthy and attractive.

Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth

Taking the time each day to floss is a great habit that can have a huge impact on your oral health. Flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left alone. It may take some getting used to at first, but with a little practice and consistency you'll be flossing like a pro in no time! With just a few minutes of effort per day, you can make sure your teeth are healthy and free from build-up that could threaten your smile. Make it part of your routine—your teeth will thank you later!

Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary snacks

Eating a balanced diet can help keep your body working in top shape and is the best way to maintain optimal health. Eating processed sugar and sugary snacks, however, is not recommended since they have minimal nutritional value and lead to tooth decay, cavities, and other oral issues. Plus, it may also lead you to consume more calories than necessary, putting you at risk for weight gain. A variety of fruits and vegetables should make up the majority of your daily diet; save the occasional sugary treat for special occasions.

Quit smoking if you currently smoke cigarettes or cigars

Smoking is an unhealthy habit that carries serious oral health risks like oral cancers, oral mucosal lesions, or chronic issues like periodontal disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make to improve your well-being and oral health. Doing so reduces your risk of oral cancer and other oral health problems, and could also restore your sense of taste or smell. You'll also experience better breath and fewer stained teeth. If you're considering quitting smoking, start today and make lasting improvements to your oral health.

Wear a mouthguard when playing sports or engaging in other activities where there is a risk of injury to the mouth

Whether you're a soccer pro or just enjoy participating in activities that have the potential to cause oral injury, it's wise to wear a mouthguard. Not protecting your oral health can lead to costly dental bills and decreasing oral function. A mouthguard acts as a shield against potential hazards, preventing chips, fractures, and other oral injuries that are costly not only in terms of finances but also oral health overall. Investing in your oral health by wearing a mouthguard is worth it—after all, you should protect your smile and your investment!

Stanley Dentistry is committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. We recommend that you schedule an appointment with us for a professional cleaning and check-up at least once every six months. In addition, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and eat a balanced diet. If you currently smoke cigarettes or cigars, we strongly advise you to quit as smoking can significantly damage your teeth and gums. Lastly, wear a mouthguard when playing sports or engaging in other activities where there is a risk of injury to the mouth. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.