Are you less than thrilled with your smile? Do you worry about how others perceive you when they see your less-than-perfect teeth?
It’s not paranoia. Studies show that 73% of people are more likely to trust someone with a great smile than someone with a good job or an expensive car.
The question is: What can you do to improve your smile? Here are five tips for how to have a better smile and feel more confident about yourself.
1. Focus on Healthy Teeth & Healthy Gums
Caring for your teeth is the single most important thing you can do to improve your smile. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for two or three minutes, and add daily flossing to your routine if you haven’t already done so.
If you want to level up, toss your old toothbrush for an electric version instead. And if you’re among the 58% of adults who never floss at all, a water flosser might make it easier to adopt the habit.
2. Make Adjustments to Your Diet
Some of your favorite foods and beverages can stain your teeth and leave you with a dull smile. Coffee, tea, and red wine are notorious for staining teeth, as are tobacco products. Sugary foods and drinks also leave a film on your teeth and make you more prone to developing cavities and other problems.
If you’re wondering how to have perfect teeth, take a close look at your diet. Reduce or eliminate foods and drinks that stain your teeth and focus on drinking more water and eating less sugar.
3. Whiten & Straighten Your Teeth
If your teeth are already dull from years of stains or neglect, you can get a quick boost with a whitening treatment. Choose a DIY home kit or (even better) visit your dentist for a professional whitening treatment.
Are crooked teeth or gaps in your smile a bigger culprit? It might be time to consider the braces you never got as a kid. With Invisalign and other clear aligner options, it’s easier than ever to straighten your teeth and get a beautiful smile.
4. Consider Other Dental Procedures
If you have the time and money to make the investment, you too can get a fabulous smile like Julia Roberts or George Clooney. Ask your dentist about:
- Veneers
- Dental implants
- Dentures
- Crowns
- Bonding
The best dentist can recommend different options that suit your budget and, most importantly, will provide the results you’re looking for.
5. Think Happy Thoughts
Our final tip for how to smile better is to focus on having a natural smile. This will always look better than a stiff, forced smile from your 7th-grade yearbook photo.
When you’re ready to flash a smile, think of something that makes you happy. This could be your significant other, your pet, your favorite song, or a happy memory from your childhood. People will notice your genuine smile and respond to it — guaranteed.
Now You Know How to Have a Better Smile
If your smile feels lackluster, the good news is there are plenty of things you can do to enhance it. Try some of the suggestions listed above for how to have a better smile and say hello to a more vivacious you!
Now that you know how to smile better, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for other great lifestyle and health articles.