Like a beautiful antique item or a shiny new car, we take pride in the things we value. And when we take pride in something, we are more likely to take precise care of it. So why is it that our smile is something we so often neglect? It is the very thing that allows us to eat, talk, smile, and do several other things we enjoy. Taking ownership of something comes with responsibilities, but that is when we can take pride in it.
On March 20 we celebrate World Oral Health Day, which is the perfect opportunity to begin taking charge of your oral health and start caring for your teeth and gums! Our mouths are something we should be proud of, therefore we should want them to be in the best shape possible. So how do you show pride in your smile? You do so in a few different ways.
Keep it clean
Hygiene is one of the ways we care for just about anything we own. So it goes without saying that cleaning your teeth is the number one way you can take ownership of your smile. Brushing your teeth and flossing every day keeps bad bacteria from building up on your teeth and is the simplest way to ensure you don’t end up with gum disease. Although this is something you must do every single day, protecting your mouth by keeping it clean leads to a healthier smile and healthier you. Mouthwash is also always a great option for keeping your breath minty fresh!
Keep it maintained
Brushing and flossing do wonders for your teeth and gums, but without maintenance, there could be problems arising that you are unaware of. Just like when we take our cars for regular checks and oil changes, we should take our mouths to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
Your dentist is specially trained to look beyond what meets the eye to diagnose and treat anything that could be a problem within your mouth. During a visit to the dentist, along with receiving a good cleaning, your dentist will also look for cavities, oral problems and check your face and neck for abnormalities. You can expect to have a conversation about dental habits and brushing techniques as well! All of this is important to a well-maintained mouth.
Feed it Properly
Taking pride in your mouth includes giving it food that will not cause harm to your teeth and gums. You can stay ahead of the game by making sure your diet is well balanced and helpful to your mouth. Sticky gummies, candies, and starches that will stay in between your teeth invite tooth decay. While fruits, vegetables, and sugar-free gum help us fight plaque buildup. Drinking lots of water is always recommended too. One way to think about this is by considering the proper oil or fuel that goes into your car. Certain kinds could cause damage to your car. You probably wouldn’t put just anything into your vehicle, so consider what goes in your mouth as well.
By making time to care for your teeth each day and putting forth a little extra effort, you are protecting those pearly whites from disease and making your mouth healthier overall. Not to mention you will be ready to show off your smile to the world!
So commit today to take pride in your smile and take care of your mouth. For World Oral Health Month, but also every day after that! Come by our office today to make sure your mouth is maintained properly. A good cleaning and checkup is a step toward an overall healthier you!
About the Author
-
Dr. Jay L. Robertson
Dr. Jay Robertson joined our practice in July 2008. He is from Montgomery and is a graduate of Saint James School, Birmingham-Southern College, and the University of Alabama, Birmingham School of Dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Alabama Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. Robertson and his wife Jennifer have four children, John Campbell, Julian, Lowe, and Ansley.
Dr. Robertson serves on the board of the Montgomery Quarterback Club and is a member of the First United Methodist Church of Montgomery. When not at work, Dr. Robertson enjoys all things sports, including Auburn, golf, and his children’s various sports.