Dreaming of candy hearts, romantic love songs, and a perfect first kiss this Valentine’s Day? Before cozying up to the one you love, make sure your mouth is in excellent health because, sometimes, a kiss can be more than just a kiss.

Kissing stimulates saliva, which can help your mouth fight cavities naturally. However, if you have poor oral health, you run the risk of sharing unwanted germs, illnesses or diseases instead of a perfect first kiss. Make your smile a vision of love and extra kissable with these tips.

Brush Up On Your Brushing Basics

You’ve likely been practicing the same oral hygiene routine since you can remember, but your at-home technique should evolve, not stay the same. Brush up on your hygiene habits and refresh your perspective and your mouth.

At your next dental exam, ask your dentist or hygienist how your at-home care measures up, and if you should be doing anything differently. Re-learning how to brush, floss, and rinse at any age will only help to keep your mouth clean, healthy, and not to mention more kissable.

Go In For a Deep Clean

If it’s been a while since you have had your teeth cleaned, there is no time like the present to schedule an appointment. Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups, cleanings, and x-rays is the best way to ensure your oral health is in great standing. Regular exams will also help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease which are both kiss-kryptonite.

Consider Cosmetic Upgrades

Not being utterly confident in your smile can impact your entire life. If you’re not happy with your smile due to a gap in your teeth, misalignment, or other cosmetic issues, there is no time like the present to talk to your dentist.

Eliminate a gummy smile.

Is there an uneven balance of teeth and gums when you flash your smile? If you find yourself holding your hand in front of your mouth when you talk or grin due to short teeth, a gummy smile can be easily corrected. Cosmetic crown lengthening can be performed to establish a natural looking smile and give you the confidence you desire.

Correct Long Teeth.

The opposite of a gummy smile is when the gums are higher than they should be, showing more tooth than is aesthetically pleasing. This could be a result of receding gums from brushing too hard. Gum treatments are available to re-contour your gum line and cover more of the tooth.

Whiten and Brighten.

If your teeth are stained or discolored, it can affect you in many ways. Dull, yellow teeth can make you appear unhealthy and older than you actually are. By whitening and brightening your smile, your entire appearance will be more open and inviting. There are many ways to whiten your teeth. Whitening toothpaste, at-home whitening treatments, or professional in-office treatments will all give you that bright, white smile and make your mouth healthier at the same time.

Beware of Bad Breath

Bacteria is the main culprit of bad breath, so maintaining great habits like brushing and flossing are especially important. Another simple way to keep your breath fresh and clean is with an over-the-counter antibacterial mouthwash. Not only will it freshen your breath instantly, but it will help to keep your cavity-flighting saliva flowing.

Quit Bad Habits

Smoking isn’t attractive, and many people who don’t smoke find kissing someone that does less-than-appealing. Not only is smoking bad for your breath, but it also leaves stains on your teeth and gives them a less-than-white appearance. Give yourself and your Valentine the gift of quitting bad tobacco habits this year.

Ask an Expert For Advice

We may not be experts on love, but we are experts when it comes to taking excellent care of our patients and their teeth! Establishing a good relationship with your dentist and visiting regularly can help keep your mouth at its best all year long. Ask Dr. Kim Okamura for more advice on keeping your smile kissable at your next appointment.

Dr. Kim Dr. Kim

Dr. Kim Okamura

I'm Dr. Kim Okamura and this blog is a product of my love of dentistry. I dedicate it to all the patients I have served so that they may better understand my craft. The information here will give you and others the power to maintain and protect one of your most priceless gifts ... your SMILE.