It’s time to smile for the camera! Except, that you never smile in pictures because your teeth make you feel self-conscious.

A beautiful smile does more than affect your willingness to put on a big grin. It makes you healthier overall. That’s why it’s so important for you to establish a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing is a great start but you also have to watch what you eat and go see a dentist at least twice a year.

Check out this guide for a full list of ways for you to keep your pearly whites in great shape.

Essential Everyday Habits for Good Oral Hygiene

Essential Everyday Habits for Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and Floss Every Single Day

Brushing and flossing every single day are the basics of good oral hygiene. There are many people who brush and floss after every snack and meal. Doing it once when you wake up and once when you go to bed will be enough to keep plaque from building up on your teeth though.

If you fail to at least do that, the plague will sit on your teeth and wear away at them. Over time, if you continue to neglect this crucial step you may develop gum disease.

Watch What You Eat

As you’re probably aware, heavy amounts of sugar will take a toll on your teeth. It’s not the only problem food out there, however.

If you eat a ton of citrus fruits, you may not have healthy teeth. The reason is the high acid content. It wears away at your tooth enamel and leaves them vulnerable.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t indulge in the occasional orange. What it does mean is that you should limit your intake of them.

Correct Your Smile

Uneven teeth can harm your self-confidence and cause a bunch of health problems. If your teeth are overlapping, it will be hard for you to brush and floss properly.

There are many ways for you to correct your smile but the most common one is braces. Now, we know what you’re thinking. Braces are expensive!

There are avenues you can go down to afford them if your insurance doesn’t cover dental. Be on the lookout for coupons and discounts.

Visit the Dentist

You should visit your dentist twice a year at least. Not only will they clean your teeth but they’ll look for signs of common oral-related disease as well.

This early detection will allow you to solve small problems before they turn into large, expensive ones.

Stay Away from Cigarettes

Smoking cigarettes pose a horrible risk to your body. As far as your oral health goes, they will discolor your pearly whites and ruin the soft tissue in your mouth. It’s best that you avoid them.

Practicing Good Oral Hygiene

Taking care of your teeth isn’t only about aesthetics. Your oral health plays a huge role in your wellness overall. Take care of your smile by practicing good oral hygiene and visit your dentist throughout the year.

Having a perfect smile isn’t the only way to keep yourself healthy. Check out the health section of our blog daily for more articles like this one.