There are plenty of things you’re probably doing right now to get ready for Valentine’s Day. Maybe you’re calling in reservations to your significant other’s favorite restaurant or brainstorming the perfect thing to write in their card. But are you doing all the right things to get your smile ready for the special occasion?
Valentine’s Day is when you can expect to snuggle close to the one you love, so you want to make sure your breath is fresh and your smile is looking good. Check out some of the ways you can make sure your dental health is on point this February 14.
Then, partner with Beaumont Family Dentistry year-round to improve the health of your teeth and your gums! Our team of dental professionals offers high-quality dentistry across a variety of services. Whether you need a tooth replaced, dental damage repaired, or want to improve the appearance of your smile, we can help you at any of our three convenient locations in Lexington, KY.
Call the one nearest you today to schedule an appointment.
- Beaumont: 859-223-2120
- Hamburg: 859-687-0975
- Leestown: 859-368-8260
1. Skip The Conversation Hearts And Assorted Chocolates.
Roses are red. Violets are blue. Sugar is sweet — and it’s what causes tooth decay and gum disease. When sugary particles remain on the surfaces of your teeth and gums, they attract all sorts of nasty bacteria that feed on the sugars and emit a weak acid. That acid wears away at enamel, and the bacterial buildup causes an infection of the gums.
This Valentine’s Day, consider skipping the chalky heart candies and jumbo boxes of chocolates. Instead, get a little creative with non-candy gifts for your loved one (and for yourself, too). A dozen roses are classic for a reason!
And if your child is bringing Valentine’s Day gifts to school for their classmates, consider replacing sweet treats with fun non-candy knick-knacks. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Stickers (“I’m stuck on you, Valentine!”)
- Sugar-free chewing gum with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance (“I ‘chews’ you!”)
- Toy dinosaurs (“You’re dino-mite!”)
- Rulers (“You rule, Valentine!”)
2. Freshen Your Breath.
Expecting kisses this Valentine’s Day? Make sure your breath is as fresh as it can be. If you’re just looking for a little extra pick-me-up for the special occasion, mouthwash is a convenient option. Be sure to look for therapeutic mouthwashes, as opposed to ones that are purely “cosmetic.”
While cosmetic mouthwashes only temporarily cover up bad breath, therapeutic mouthwashes can actually reduce gingivitis, plaque, tooth decay, and other conditions that contribute to bad breath.
The American Dental Association recommends checking the back of your mouthwash bottle for these active ingredients, which may indicate therapeutic benefits:
- Cetylpyridinium chloride
- Peroxide
- Essential oils
- Fluoride
- Chlorhexidine
If you regularly rinse with a therapeutic mouthwash but find you’re still suffering from bad breath, it’s likely a sign that something’s amiss with your dental health. Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, can be caused by a badly decayed tooth or an aggressive form of gum disease, so it’s important to see a dentist.
At Beaumont Family Dentistry, we’re able to pinpoint the cause of your bad breath so we can get the problem taken care of quickly! Oftentimes, a simple tooth-colored filling or nonsurgical gum disease treatment will eradicate the unpleasant odor.
3. Beware Of Contagious Cavities.
A romantic night out might involve trading bites of each other’s meals and stealing a couple kisses. These seem like harmless gestures, but the truth is that they can allow cavity-causing bacteria to pass from one person to another.
Want to be a courteous partner? Just remember to practice healthy oral hygiene habits to keep bacteria at bay. This includes brushing twice a day, for two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s also important to floss thoroughly once a day.
4. Form A Relationship With Your Dentist.
Besides brushing and flossing regularly, it’s important to see your dentist once every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. These appointments are opportunities for early detection and intervention when it comes to tooth decay and gum disease.
And at Beaumont Family Dentistry, our talented hygienists also perform a deep cleaning, removing any hardened plaque on the surfaces of teeth and along your gum line. When you leave the office, your teeth will look and feel amazing!
If you’re looking for excellent comprehensive dentistry in Lexington, KY, look no further than Beaumont Family Dentistry! We have three convenient locations, each of them staffed by compassionate professionals ready to help you with your dental health needs.
Call us today at the office nearest you, or use our online form to request an appointment.