Excellent oral health care entails being vigilant about what you eat, what you drink, and how you protect your teeth. Your smile faces constant threats from decay-causing bacteria and staining agents. Work and dedication are a must if you want to maintain a radiant and healthy smile. Establishing a routine is the best way to get started, and there are core dentist-approved practices to include. Use the following tips to ensure you protect your teeth and enjoy a smile that you love.

How to Keep Your Smile Healthy

1. Brush & Floss

Nothing can replace brushing and flossing. These dental care practices remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from hard-to-reach areas. They scrub stain-causing pigments away and remove buildup around the gum line—which is the leading cause of gum disease. Brushing and flossing also keep your breath smelling great.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and dentist-approved paste. You can invest in an electric toothbrush and water-jet flosser for superior cleaning.

2. Eat the Right Foods

Diet plays a significant role in oral health. Avoid sugary sweets, sticky or hard foods, too much bread, or an abundance of citrus fruits. These all contribute to enamel erosion and open the door for decay. Instead, enjoy calcium-rich dairy and dark leafy greens that contain phosphorus and vitamin D. These materials help strengthen enamel and promote gum health.

3. Watch Out for Stain-Causing Foods & Drinks

Some foods and drinks will always cause stains. Wines, teas, and coffee all contain tannins that will settle into your porous enamel and cause discoloration. Colored sports drinks, berries, curries, and pasta sauces have the same effect.

Enjoy these in moderation and rinse or brush after consuming them. If you’re already dealing with stains, explore cosmetic dentistry options to resolve them, such as UV teeth whitening or at-home whitening trays.

4. See the Dentist Twice a Year

No matter how healthy you feel that your smile is, see the dentist twice a year. During these visits, they conduct a thorough exam and deep cleaning that will remove difficult particles or stains. They’ll discuss best practices and look for signs of decay and other issues so that they can address problems before they have a severe impact. They can also recommend cosmetic dentistry treatments to manage existing issues and promote a whiter smile.

If you’re overdue for a dental exam, contact Stanley R. McCardle DMD | Family Dentistry. Based in Headland, AL, Dr. McCardle and his team offer a variety of dental care services, including cosmetic dentistry procedures. This dentist takes a personalized approach to care and will explore treatment options to fulfill all your health needs. Call (334) 693-2112 to schedule a teeth cleaning and visit their website to learn more about the practice. Connect on Facebook for more dental care tips.