The holiday season is full of parties and festive events where people smile, socialize, and take photos. But if you’re one of the 56% of Americans who said in a survey that they go out of their way to hide their smiles, it’s natural to wonder how you can feel more confident.
At her practice in San Jose, California, experienced dentist Irma Francisco, DDS, works with patients to enhance both the health and appearance of their smiles. Here, she highlights five easy things you can do to keep your smile dazzling now and into the new year.
With so much to do at this time of year, it can be easy to put your oral health routine on the back burner. However, it’s important to stick with it, no matter how busy you are.
Brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. These daily habits can reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease and help keep your breath fresh. If you’re worried about stains or discoloration, a whitening toothpaste can make your smile even more vibrant.
Many holiday meals feature foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as red wine, coffee, and dark sauces. You don’t have to avoid your favorite treats, but it’s important to be mindful. For example, if you plan on drinking soda, using a straw can minimize the exposure to your teeth. Or, if you eat a food like cranberry sauce, rinse your mouth after the meal to prevent the tannins (compounds that can stain the teeth) from sticking to your tooth enamel.
Good oral hygiene isn’t always enough to remove stains and tooth discoloration. That’s why we offer professional in-office teeth whitening and take-home teeth whitening trays. Both treatments can make your smile up to several shades brighter, so you can smile confidently in photos and at other seasonal events.
If it’s been more than six months since your last oral exam and dental cleaning, now is the perfect time to stop by our office. A simple polish and cleaning can eliminate plaque and tartar buildup and remove stains that don’t improve with daily care.
It also gives us a chance to check for cavities and gum disease, both of which can affect your smile’s appearance. If you do have a cavity, we can apply a tooth-colored filling that prevents further damage and blends in with your smile.
Certain dental issues, like cracked teeth or spaces between the teeth, may benefit from cosmetic dentistry. For example, if you have a gap between your two front teeth or noticeable stains that don’t improve with teeth whitening, we may recommend veneers. These are thin, porcelain shells that we bond to your teeth. They improve alignment and symmetry and make your teeth noticeably whiter, so you can smile confidently.
If you’re missing a tooth (or multiple teeth), we can address that issue, too. Dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges all provide effective tooth replacement options, depending on your needs.
Are you worried about holiday photos or social interactions due to the appearance of your teeth or smile? If so, get in touch. After an oral exam, dental X-rays, and a discussion of your goals, Dr. Francisco can make personalized treatment recommendations.
To request your consultation, contact us today by calling the office or booking an appointment online.
