Here’s a trivia question — how many teeth will you have in your lifetime? The answer, like the number of weeks in a year, is 52. As we age, we’ll grow 20 baby teeth replaced by 32 permanent or “adult” teeth. Taking good care of them is a year-round job.

Our smiles, when maintained properly, will last us our entire lives. On top of that, it shouldn’t be too hard to keep them looking brilliant. It all starts with healthy habits like brushing and flossing — when we’re young. However, it’s never too late to get to working on a better, brighter smile.

Here are some simple tips to set you up for success.

It’s in the Water

Drinking tap water is the healthiest thing you can drink for your smile. Most city water has the recommended daily dose of fluoride. It strengthens teeth and flushes away debris, slowing tooth decay. Sugary and acidic drinks can damage teeth. Even sports drinks can be harmful. Water is the sugar-free pause that refreshes. 

Brush AND Floss

Brushing is good, but that only affects your teeth’s surface. Flossing gets in-between teeth where they’re vulnerable. You’ve felt the occasional piece of popcorn wedged between your teeth. Imagine all the things you can’t feel. Brushing twice and flossing once daily are the perfect combination for a healthy smile. Your gums may be sensitive and bleed a little if flossing is new to you. But it stops quickly and should end completely after two weeks.

See Your Dentist

Your mouth needs its annual checkup just like the rest of you. This is the time for your dentist to ask questions, look for changes, and for you to get your teeth professionally cleaned. You should also see your dentist if you are having any issues. Don’t let tooth pain, dry mouth, bad breath, or any other oral condition go for too long. The mouth is truly the gateway to your body and what happens there can be an indicator of more serious problems, like diabetes or heart disease.

Stop with the Tobacco

Beautiful teeth are just ANOTHER reason not to use tobacco products. The benefits of quitting have been written about time and time again. In addition to being a killer, cigarette smoke dulls your smile. Chewing tobacco, snuff, and dip can leave behind pieces of tobacco and residue and eventually lead to mouth cancer. It’s not worth the risk.

Beware of Certain Beverages

Sugary drinks can cause tooth decay while others can lead to stained teeth. Coffee, tea, and red wine can discolor your teeth. It can be polished off at the dentist’s office but can also seep into the enamel on your teeth over time. Rinsing your mouth with water after having these beverages will help reduce the risk of staining.

Watch How You Whiten

Not all whitening systems are created equal. Rinses, strips, toothpaste, and trays are all options. Some are better for one problem but won’t address another. Read labels carefully and talk to your dentist or hygienist.  

Get the Right Brush

Electric toothbrushes are ideal but not required to get a good brushing. Dentists recommend soft bristled manual brushes if you don’t want to buy electric. Medium and hard brushes are too rough and can wear away your enamel and cause gums to recede.

Trust Us with Your Teeth

These tips will help you keep your smile bright all on your own. When it’s time to see a professional, make sure you call AltaMed. Our dental offices are conveniently located inside the same locations that provide checkups, women’s health services, and all the other care you and your family need to growth healthy. Call AltaMed at (877) 462-2582 to get started today.