Healthy Tips for a Winning Smile

Learn what makes a great smile with these expert tips for looking good in A healthy smile and fresh breath are essential ingredients for romantics are being given a helping hand to get a winning smile.

* What you eat and drink matters when it comes to a healthy smile and a healthy lifestyle. There's a place in your diet for that occasional cup of coffee or a cookie here or there. But be mindful of moderation and the effect it has on your teeth and your overall health and well being.

* As any good dentist will tell you, brushing is only half of the battle when it comes to fighting cavities, plaque, and gum disease. Flossing and using mouthwash are also absolutely essential components of a healthy smile.

* There's more to a healthy smile than a visit to your dentist every six months, though that does matter. Make time for yearly physicals with your healthcare provider, too. Your dental health and your physical health are often more interconnected than most people realize. If you are having dental problems, seek the advice of your dentist-sometimes, a health issue may also be present.

* You can't have a smile that sparkles if you don't use the right equipment! Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis, at least 3-4 times a year (so more often than your dental visits!). Make sure to rinse your toothbrush after you use it and let it dry. Don't cover it up, or you may breed bacteria.

* Bad habits, especially those that have been around for a lifetime, can have a negative impact on your overall health and your dental health, too. Smoking, drinking a pot of coffee every day and excessive quantities of soda can all be bad habits that can hurt your smile. Changing just one of these can help you live a healthier (and sometimes longer) life.

* One of the best ways to guarantee that your kids have healthy smiles is to let them see you taking care of yours, too. Remember that children learn from what we do more than merely what we say. So set that smiling, shining, and healthy example for your little ones, and you may end up with more than just one winning smile in the family.