How to Get a Super Smile at Any Age

Last Updated on September 12, 2020 by Ellen Christian

Do you think it’s possible to get a super smile at any age or do you worry that your smile will disappear as you age? To keep that your smile healthy as you age, it’s important to pay attention to your oral care habits. As I approach fifty, this is advice I wish that I had paid more attention to years ago. When I was a child, my teeth were crooked and, like many teenagers, I ended up having braces. Instead of paying extra attention to my teeth during this time, I did the bare minimum to avoid being yelled at by the orthodontist at my next visit. Because of that, I have a few oral care issues that I’m dealing with today, and my smile isn’t one that I feel comfortable with when I’m photographed. If I could go back, even a few years, I would pay much more attention.

How to Get a Super Smile at Any Age

Since I can’t turn back the hands of time, I’m working on paying more attention now. My husband is going through some rather expensive oral surgery right now because he didn’t pay attention any better than I did. Before I get to that point, I’m following these steps.

• Brush twice a day. Your dentist probably told you that years ago and if you haven’t been following his advice, start now.
• Floss. I hate flossing, my teeth are very close together, and it’s not comfortable. If you have the same problem, try flossing tape instead of flossing thread which is less traumatic to your gums.
• Follow a healthy diet. A diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals can help prevent gum disease.
• Stop smoking. Giving up smoking can help to avoid gum disease, tooth decay, yellow teeth and mouth cancer.
• Avoid sugar. Sugar promotes the growth of bacteria. Avoid things like soda, fruit juice, caramels and candy.

• Consider a probiotic. As you age, the bacteria in your mouth change. Taking a probiotic may help to keep the bacteria balanced. Try a smoothie made with organic yogurt that contains live active cultures for an easy way to get your daily probiotic.
• Swish after eat. If you cannot brush after a meal, swish with a mouthwash containing cinnamon, clove, tea tree, peppermint or spearmint oils to control bacteria.

• Consider a remineralizing toothpaste. A remineralizing toothpaste can help provide necessary minerals to your mouth.
• Try oil pulling. I’ve been oil pulling for a few months now and have noticed a difference. I use clove oil and coconut oil, but you can do research and make your decision.
• Get regular cleanings. Without regular cleanings, bacteria built up in your mouth can lead to decay, cavities, and eventually tooth loss! Regular visits to the dentist are essential to not only prevent these problems but also catch any problems that do exist before they cost you your smile.

All of the best preventive care in the world won’t eliminate the need to see a dentist for a regular check-up. Even a simple trip to the dentist costs money, however, and with a family or more serious issues, the costs can quickly multiply. That’s where dental insurance comes into play. A dental insurance plan from Guardian can help cover the cost of basic dental services as well as most costly procedures.

By entering a bit of basic information, it’s easy to get a quote on dental insurance and see how much you can save. Guardian Dental plans can be purchased individually at any time throughout the year. You do not need to have a qualifying event to buy dental insurance.

 

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.