If you worry more than most people when it comes to smiling for photographs or even at other people, then it’s likely that you’re feeling some embarrassment about your teeth. With a gleaming white smile now the standard set by A-list celebrities, models, and others in the media, teeth that are misaligned, discolored, or chipped can put a dent in your self-confidence. But, the good news is that issues such as these are easier to fix than you may think. We’ve listed some of the best methods to use to achieve a perfect smile.

#1. Visit the Hygienist:
If the main issue that you have with your teeth is that they are an off-white, yellowish or brownish color, then don’t worry because you’re certainly not alone. Today’s popular lifestyle habits, such as drinking coffee, tea, and red wine can quickly turn your teeth a shade that doesn’t look great. If you’ve recently quit smoking, tooth discoloration may also be a concern for you. Thankfully, a quick visit to your hygienist should have them sparkling once again after a professional scale and polish. Keep up visits every six months to keep your teeth in the best condition.

#2. Consider Braces:
If you didn’t get braces as a teenager or your teeth have moved again since getting older, speak to your orthodontist about your options for adult braces. For mild cases, invisible and removable braces can be used over a few months to gently correct the alignment of your teeth. If you need fixed braces but are worried about them showing, speak to your orthodontist about clear options or braces fitted to the back of the teeth. You may need to have teeth removed for braces to work; visit Health Row for more information on looking after your teeth following an extraction.

#3. Improve Your Home Dental Hygiene:
No matter which treatments you pay for, you’ll never be able to achieve the perfect smile if your teeth are unhealthy and poorly cared for. Improving your home dental hygiene routine doesn’t have to take a lot but can make a massive difference to your smile. For example, you might want to consider investing in an electric toothbrush for a deeper and more accurate clean each time or increase the amount of flossing that you do. Speak to your dentist about your dental hygiene habits and ask for improvement suggestions. Don’t forget that twice-yearly dental check-ups should always be a major part of your oral care routine.

#4. Dental Bonding:
If you’re embarrassed of your smile due to small chips on the bottom of your front teeth, the good news is that these can easily be repaired with a process known as dental bonding. It involves a fairly quick and painless process, using special composite resins to build back up where chips have occurred. Once the resins are applied to your teeth, they will be buffed and polished to create a uniform appearance. It’s best to have your teeth professionally cleaned or whitened before this procedure.

Are you considering any of these methods to improve your teeth? Let us know.