Why Making Time for Your Smile Matters

Your smile is one of the primary features that people see when they first meet you and is a huge part of that first impression with your date or your new colleague.

In fact, according to one survey, some 48 percent of people believe that another person’s smile is what they remember most about that person on first meeting, surpassing even their words or clothing.

While this one study isn’t the absolute truth, it does make a good point about just how far a first “smile” impression can go.

If you want to ensure that you have a healthy smile for your whole life, there are some things that you need to do to ensure a beautiful smile for life.

Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease is a prevalent mouth problem for people worldwide, and it may even affect up to half of the population. The positive news is that if gum disease is found early, it’s often reversible.

Brushing and flossing regularly is key to preventing this disease. However, some groups are more prone to developing gum disease as well as having more severe forms. Here are some examples of risk factors that can increase the probability that you will have mouth and gum problems related to gum disease:

• Age
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Genetics
• Smoking and alcohol use

Symptoms of gum disease are swollen gums, bleeding between the teeth, receding gums, pus, loose teeth, and pain when you chew. Always keep a record of symptoms to take to your dentist if you are unable to see them right away.  

Tips for Keeping a Healthy Smile

You already know that you should brush and floss twice a day, but what’s more important than the frequency of brushing is the way we brush.

Most dentists recommend using the head of the toothbrush to brush in small circles, all the way around each tooth. And you should do this at a 45-degree angle.

Brushing first thing in the morning and the last thing at night is ideal, and if you can squeeze in a session during the day, you’ll likely keep those pearly whites in good shape.

Flossing, too, is essential for getting food particles out of the teeth that can’t be reached by a toothbrush. And mouthwash can help to prevent tooth decay and minimize plaque buildup.

Another interesting point is that diet can play a significant role in your rate of tooth decay and gum problems. If you eat a lot of sugar and not enough nutritious foods, you may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies, as well as sugar buildup.

And lastly, if you are playing contact sports or if you grind your teeth, a mouthguard will help protect your teeth from damage and wear.

Regular checkups are essential for most people and are recommended every six months. If you are in a high-risk category for oral issues, then you should see your dentist more often, and if you know you’re healthy, once a year is often enough. But let your dentist help you decide because they know best!

Cosmetic Options for a Brighter Smile with Dr. Min Zhu

If you are older and you’re looking for options to make your smile bright again, you may want to consider whitening, caps, or even implants. There are plenty of options available. If you’re in the Nashua or Boston area and looking for professional dentists, contact Dr. Min Zhu today for information on how to keep your smile looking bright.