Feed your smile – National Smile Month
t’s that time of year again – June is National Smile Month.
This year the theme is “Feed Your Smile” – a powerful reminder that what we eat and drink can have a big impact on your oral health – and the initiative is focusing on three key areas:
Hydration Station
Water is essential for life, and essential for a healthy smile too. Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of the clear stuff helps wash away food residue, keeps your mouth moist and supports saliva production, all of which will help keep that smile healthy.
So this month (and every month!) grab yourself a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks.
Sugar? There’s such a thing as too sweet…
Most of us love a sweet treat from time to time, but the harsh reality is that the more sugar you have, the more likely you are to have issues with your teeth. Where you can, swapping out sugary snacks for tooth friendly alternatives (fresh fruit, nuts and cheese) can help reduce the risk of tooth decay, cavities and other oral issues.
Dairy does wonders
Good news – while sugary stuff should be put on the backburner, dairy is most certainly back on the menu. Milk, cheese and yoghurt are all packed with calcium and phosphorus, which help keep your enamel strong and bones healthy. Try adding dairy into your day, and your smile will thank you.
As always, it’s important to pair these edible initiatives with good daily dental care, so here’s your boring but important reminder to:
· Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
· Floss or use interdental brushes daily
· Visit your dentist (us!) for regular checkups.
National Smile Month is a great opportunity to make a change, so why not try these for June and see how you get on?
Ketan
