The Power of a Smile: Why Oral Hygiene Matters

One of the first things we notice about someone is their smile. When they laugh or speak, their teeth are clearly visible! For most of my life, I was fortunate to have straight, white teeth without needing braces. However, as I aged, I started to see changes: my teeth shifted, I began grinding my teeth and my gums receded. To combat this, I got a night guard to prevent further damage while I slept. Despite these efforts, my gum recession worsened, necessitating gum grafting which is a painful procedure.

Lifestyle habits, like drinking red wine, tea, and coffee, also contribute to tooth staining. As we age, our teeth naturally discolor, so I've regularly bleached my teeth to counteract these effects. My father was a dentist so throughout my entire life I have always been diligent about dental cleanings and check-ups every six months.

Over the past decade, I noticed my teeth had become crooked, especially in photos, which made me self-conscious. I began to pose differently to improve my smile's appearance and ultimately decided to visit an orthodontist. After starting aligners, my teeth were straightened in about a year, and I am thrilled with the results.

Through this journey, I realized how significant a smile is when meeting someone new. To maintain a beautiful, youthful smile, it’s crucial to keep up with oral hygiene and address any dental issues promptly. Here are some tips for preserving your stunning smile and healthy teeth.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene

A robust oral hygiene routine—brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist twice a year—keeps your teeth looking their best and can contribute to a more youthful appearance. Brush after every meal, floss daily, and schedule a dental check-up and cleaning every six months. Even with the best preventive care, the natural aging process can affect your teeth, but your dentist can help rejuvenate your smile and potentially shave 10 to 15 years off your appearance.

Teeth Whitening

Over time, your tooth enamel naturally discolors, contributing to a more aged appearance. Yellowed or damaged teeth can make you look older, and missing teeth can lead to a sunken-in appearance, adding years to your face. Whitening treatments can address discolored teeth and help restore a youthful brightness to your smile. I take care of my teeth at home using bleach and trays from the dentist, which is both convenient and easy to do. For additional treatments, options like bonding, veneers or implants are also available. Talk to your dental provider about your goals and best options to meet your needs.

Night Guard

Wear and tear on teeth is a common issue that becomes more noticeable with age. A night guard can help maintain a youthful appearance by preventing teeth grinding and reducing crowding. By protecting your teeth while you sleep, a night guard can prevent damage to the gums and teeth, and help keep your smile looking fresh.

Straightening Teeth

Crowded or misaligned teeth can be a significant indicator of age. Straightening your teeth can sometimes make you look 10 to 15 years younger. Beyond aesthetics, straight teeth are easier to clean and less prone to decay, gum recession, and premature loss. Braces, aligners and other orthodontic treatments are effective at any age. Invisalign is clear and not as noticeable as braces but talk to your provider to see if you are a candidate for aligners.

From the Tooth Fairy:  Smile with confidence! Caring for your teeth goes beyond aesthetics—it's essential for your overall health!