Tag: teeth brushing

Five Reasons Why It’s Worthwhile to Smile

smilesNineteenth century novelist George Eliot once said, “Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles.”

Yet smiling is more than just a way to convince your mother that you really did enjoy that meatloaf surprise. Even the smallest upward lip curve—whether or not it’s sincerely delivered—has far-reaching emotional and physical benefits.

Here are five advantages of turning that frown upside down:

1. Studies have shown that smiling lowers blood pressure. If you need some instant Zen, then all you have to do is smile. Chanting is optional (especially if you’re standing in line at the grocery store). Continue reading Five Reasons Why It’s Worthwhile to Smile

More than You Ever Wanted to Know about Brushing Your Teeth

Thousands of years ago, people still liked fresh breath and a shiny smile. Tribal people used sticks to clean their teeth, and over time, this evolved into a Chinese hog-hair toothbrush. Today, we prefer a cleaner and more effective option ;-).shutterstock_2379935

Choosing Your Tools
• Never buy a toothbrush with hard bristles.
• Make sure your toothbrush’s size suits your mouth.
• Electric toothbrushes can be more effective than manual styles.
• Use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a tongue scraper or gentle brushing to clean plaque from your tongue.
• Find floss that works for you – there’s flat, round, waxed, non-waxed, minty, and even pre-strung picks.

Tips for Brushing
• Brush morning and night – and after meals, if you like.
• Brush for two minutes at each session.
• If you can’t brush after meals, rinse with water.
• Replace your toothbrush every two to four months and after an illness.
• Microwave your damp toothbrush for one minute every month to kill bacteria. Continue reading More than You Ever Wanted to Know about Brushing Your Teeth