Our smiles are the first thing most people notice about us. A warm smile can break the ice and make people feel at ease, but what happens if you’re not confident about the way you look? It’s very common to feel self-conscious when your teeth are on show. If your teeth are chipped, stained or misshapen, there are lots of ways to boost your confidence with a healthy, beautiful smile. In this handy guide, we’ll share some top tips for pristine pearly whites.
Dental hygiene
The best way to lower risks of dental disease, staining and common issues like bad breath (halitosis) is to adopt a thorough daily dental hygiene regime. Oral hygiene is all about cleaning your mouth to remove food debris and harmful bacteria. Good hygiene is important for optimum dental and general health. Start by making sure you brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before you go to bed. Brush for at least 2 minutes and move around your mouth, covering every individual tooth. Use small, circular motions and be gentle. If you brush too hard, this can damage the enamel. Electric toothbrushes are proven to remove plaque more effectively, but you can achieve a deep clean with a manual brush.
After brushing your teeth, clean your tongue. The tongue tends to attract bacteria, which can increase the risk of halitosis. Floss or use interdental brushes to clean between the teeth and along the gum line. Try to wait at least 45-60 minutes after eating to brush and avoid rinsing with water. Cleaning your teeth straight after you eat or drink something sugary or acidic can cause enamel wear. Rinsing after brushing removes fluoride from the mouth. Fluoride can help to strengthen the enamel to lower the risk of decay.
Cosmetic dentistry
A 2019 UK survey suggested that over 40% of adults were considering having cosmetic dental treatment in 2020. Since the pandemic, dentists across the country have reported an increase in the demand for aesthetic solutions and services, including tooth whitening, veneers, cosmetic bonding, smile makeovers and orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign. During lockdowns, we spent many hours looking at ourselves on screens during meetings and video calls, which prompted a rise in enquiries about cosmetic treatments. The growing popularity of reality TV has also made a bright white smile a must-have for many.
Cosmetic dentistry can target a wide range of issues and imperfections that hold people back and impact their confidence. From discolouration and uneven teeth to chips and crowded teeth, dentists have an incredible array of treatments at their disposal. If you are reluctant to smile in public, or you wish you felt more confident, and you’re thinking about having treatment, undertake research. Learn more about different services and techniques and arrange a consultation with a reputable, experienced dentist
Routine check-ups
Routine check-ups are quick and simple but they can make a huge difference to your general and oral health. Try to make sure that you go to the dentist every 6-24 months. If you have any problems between appointments, contact your dentist. It’s important to address symptoms such as tooth pain, swollen or bleeding gums and signs of infection as quickly as possible.
It is very common to feel self-conscious about the appearance of your smile. Very few people have perfect teeth. If you dream of showing off a radiant set of pearly whites, it’s beneficial to prioritise dental health, take good care of your teeth and gums and explore cosmetic treatment options.
