The difference between a so‑so smile and a super smile is often the difference between taking your teeth for granted and taking a few minutes to think about the effects that everyday habits have on your teeth. Here are a few smile “secrets” to consider:
    1. Floss First. Floss between your teeth every day to remove hidden bacteria that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
    2. Use a Soft Touch. It doesn’t take much pressure to clean your teeth adequately, so don’t risk harming your teeth and gums by brushing too hard.
    3. Don’t Rush Your Brush. While dentists differ on the exact amount of time you should take to brush your teeth, the basic rule is that it takes a minimum of two to three minutes to adequately clean your teeth – not the 30 seconds that many of us allot.
    4. Banish the Bacteria. Bacteria thrive on sugars and carbohydrates to create cavity­-causing acids. If you can’t brush immediately after eating, rinse out your mouth or even chew on some sugarless gum to stimulate saliva that will help wash food particles off your teeth.
    5. Cut the Coffee. Many
people sip on coffee throughout their day. If you use sugar in your coffee, you are providing a constant source of food on which the naturally
occurring bacteria in your mouth feed. Even if you don’t use sugar, coffee is a common cause of stained teeth.
    6. Protect Your Pearlies. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, a properly fitted mouthguard should be an essential piece of sports equipment. A professionally fitted mouthguard can cushion a blow that might otherwise cause broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw, and can even reduce the severity and incidence of concussions. Ask us how simple it is to fit the active members of your household with a custom‑made mouthguard.
    In addition to these tips, regular continuing care visits to your dentist will help you achieve a healthy, bright smile.