Show your teeth how much you care this Valentine’s Day. Follow our 10 top oral hygiene tips for a healthy and more kissable smile.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, remembering to brush carefully along the gum line.

2. Make sure you clean in between your teeth every day using dental floss or an interdental brush.

3. Change your toothbrush every three months; as the bristles wear down they become less effective and old brushes can harbor bacteria.

4. Use a mouth rinse and toothpaste that contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent tooth decay.

5. Avoid brushing your teeth for one hour after enjoying acidic beverages such as cola and orange juice.

6. Try drinking sugary and acidic beverages through a straw, reducing their contact with your teeth.

7. Try to limit sugary snacks to mealtimes, reducing the number of ‘sugar attacks’ on your teeth throughout the day.

8. Chew sugar free gum after meals to neutralize acids and keep your breath fresh.

9. Protect your teeth when playing contact sports by wearing a custom-made gum shield.

10. Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups.

 

• Avoiding Bad Breath: While bad breath can be a common symptom of a great meal, it’s probably not that appealing to the person you’re sharing it with. Keep some floss in your pocket so that you can quickly get rid of food particles and pesky bacteria in the bathroom; then, pop in a mint to give your smile a fresh, appealing feel. If your bad breath persists even after the minty scent has worn off, though, that means it’s time for a checkup with your local dentist.
• Not All Chocolate Is The Same: If you are buying sweets or chocolates on the big day, solid chocolate (the ones without chewy or sugary centers) don’t tend to stick to the teeth like more chewy treats too, making them better for your oral health. In fact, dark chocolate is an even better option, as it contains less sugar than milk chocolate!
• Don’t Get Sticky: Try to avoid gummy candies, hard candies, and sticky caramels. These can be terrible for your teeth. Instead, try giving flowers, a card, or even a romantic dinner at home.
• Sweets At The Right Time: If you and your partner just can’t stay away from the candy, it’s best to enjoy them after a meal so that you keep from constantly exposing your teeth to sugar and harmful bacteria. Also, be sure to drink water and practice a good, thorough hygiene routine afterwards!
• Kiss More: Kissing helps prevent cavities!   When you kiss someone it stimulates saliva in your mouth which breaks down plaque and washes bacteria away.
• Valentine’s Dental Gift: Looking to surprise your sweetheart? Teeth whitening may be just the gift your smile needs to look its very best!