Show Your Teeth Some Love This Valentine’s Day

The season of love is upon us, and every store is stocked with red and pink heart-shaped merchandise. Chances are you have a romantic date or a fun outing with friends planned for the holiday, and you want to make sure your pearly whites are at their best. With all this affection going around, Simply Smiles wants you to remember to show your teeth some love this Valentine’s Day. Here are some tips for making your Valentine’s Day sparkle: 

• Be careful who you kiss!
  • Kissing is not only fun, but can also be healthy! Kissing stimulates saliva, which can aid in cavity prevention. However, you could run the risk of getting unwanted, cavity-causing bacteria through a kiss or even by sharing an eating utensil with someone who has poor dental health. Make sure to brush twice a day and floss to maintain your healthy smile. 

• Keep your breath fresh for those special moments. 
  • Regular brushing and flossing will keep the bacteria that causes bad breath at bay, but carrying some floss in your pocket will help you take care of any persistent food particles while you’re out and about. Using mouthwash regularly is a great option for maintaining fresh breath at home, but on the go, sugar-free gum and mints are also a great way to freshen your breath in the moment, just in time for a goodnight hug or kiss.

• Give your teeth the same love and care that you would in any relationship. 
  • Your teeth require daily attention and care to stay healthy, just like any relationship! Regular oral home care, along with eating high alkaline foods such as vegetables and drinking water will keep your smile fresh. 

• Indulge in tooth-friendly treats. 
  • Most of the candy and goodies that surface around the holidays are not dentist-approved, but don’t lose hope! Here are a few tasty treats that your teeth and your taste buds will love!
    • Dark Chocolate
      • Dark chocolate has less sugar and more cocoa than its milk chocolate and white chocolate counterparts. The cocoa bean husk contains anti-bacterial properties that have shown to harden tooth enamel and will also keep bacteria levels low, reducing your risk of cavities.
    • Sugar free gum and candy
      • Sugar-free candy options will keep damaging sugar off your teeth, and sugar-free gum will not only neutralize the acids produced by bacteria found in tooth plaque, but it will also help keep your breath minty fresh.
    • Strawberries
      • Strawberries are a delicious source of Vitamin C, which is important for healthy gums. Did you know that they can also help whiten your teeth?! Strawberries contain malic acid, which is a natural tooth whitener. Try dipping your strawberries into some dark chocolate for a more indulgent treat. 
    • Cheese Plate
      • Who says Valentines day has to be all about the sweets? Cheese helps to balance the pH of your mouth, which reduces harmful acid that can lead to cavities. Everyone loves a good charcuterie board.

• Make a date with your dentist!
  • If you’re not visiting your dentist twice a year, we recommend calling to schedule your next appointment. Establishing regular visits with your dentist is crucial to maintaining the health of your mouth.

At Simply Smiles, we want you to love your teeth throughout the whole year, not just on Valentines Day! Our caring team would love to build a relationship with you and help address any concerns you may have. Call our office to make an appointment today!

What are your plans for this Valentine’s Day? Tell us about it in the comments! 

Sources: 

https://www.dentalnews.com/2018/02/12/valentines-day-dental-tips-love-teeth/

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-under-40/healthy-habits/valentines-day

https://www.glowdentistry.co.uk/blog/this-valentines-day-give-your-teeth-a-little-love

https://www.ismileva.com/valentines-day-treats-teeth-will-love/