Falling in Love with Your Smile

by Dr. Nick Wentworth

If you love your smile, you’re more likely to feel confident and show it off. If you’re not there yet, it’s never too late to fall in love with your smile. Here are some steps to help you work towards a smile you love.

Start with a healthy routine

First things first, make sure you brush at least twice a day, for two minutes, every day. Also, don’t forget to floss at least once daily! It is surprising how many people skip these basic oral hygiene rules yet want a healthy, beautiful smile.

To make your routine more fun, find a toothpaste you love, invest in a power toothbrush, or rinse with a minty mouthwash for a fresh finish. The more excited you get about caring for your smile, the more confident you’ll be knowing you have clean teeth and fresh breath.

Go for a whiter, brighter smile

If your natural teeth could use a little boost, you may be surprised at the transformation that can happen by simply whitening your teeth. Remember that professional teeth whitening is safer than at-home kits which can harm your tooth enamel or cause sensitivity. Ask your dentist about the best ways to whiten for you.

Explore cosmetic and restorative options

If your smile is showing some wear and tear, discuss options with your dentist for replacing missing teeth, crowning individually damaged or worn teeth, or replacing silver fillings with tooth-colored resin. Porcelain veneers can also be used for a smile makeover to give you a whole new look.

Don’t rule out orthodontics

If you think you’ve missed your chance for straight teeth because you didn’t have braces as a teen, it may be time to give orthodontics another look. In addition to traditional braces, orthodontists now take full advantage of other options like clear aligners that are hardly visible, to straighten your smile. Try a free consult with a professional, local orthodontist – rather than an online alternative – to learn what a treatment plan may look like for you. The orthodontist will partner with your regular dentist to ensure your overall smiles goals are carried out in unison.

Manage your expectations

Comparing your smile to social media influencers, actors, or models can cause unrealistic expectations, as chances are, you’re looking at images that have been edited. Their smile may also have been enhanced with dental procedures like whitening, prosthetics, or veneers. Focus on ways you’d like to improve your smile and talk to your dentist about what might be required to achieve it. 

In the meantime, keep smiling! Resist any temptation to hide your smile, and schedule time today to start working toward a smile you’ll love.