What does it take to achieve a smile that everyone envies? The most effective way is to have attractive and perfect teeth.

When asked of how they would want to achieve the perfect smile, most people would come up with the instant, quick fix remedies such as teeth whitening scrubs or gel or even cosmetic dental work.
These methods may be quick and even effective, but why pay for an expensive treatment or use products that may do more harm than good by stripping away the protective layer of teeth enamel.
There are plenty of ways at home that can be used to maintain a healthy smile. All that is needed is a little additional time spent on taking care of your teeth.

Method 01 : Regular brushing

The outermost layer protecting your teeth is known as the enamel. The layer immediately below is known as the dentine.

Food gets accumulated between gaps and crevices in the teeth if you do not brush the teeth after every meal. If the teeth are not cleaned properly, the food particles that are retained in those gaps and crevices get converted to lactic acid. The acid attacks the enamel and dentine causing decay and tooth cavities.

Therefore it is advisable to brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, if not after every meal to ensure an attractive smile.

Method 02 : Gum massage

Teeth plaque generally collects along the gum line. This area generally gets missed out when brushing teeth. Massaging the gums will help remove the plaque around this area. It will also increase blood circulation to gums, keeping them healthy.

Method 03 : Use of a tongue cleaner

The tongue is a haven for most of the oral bacteria. Using a tongue cleaner will ensure proper and thorough cleaning of the accumulated bacteria, food particles and dead cells. This will also ensure fresh breath.

Method 04 : Use the correct toothbrush

The correct type of toothbrush is an essential consideration especially when you’re using that brush on your teeth at least twice a day.

Toothbrushes with soft bristles are advisable to prevent scratching and damage of the gums. These toothbrushes will remove food particles whilst ensuring the gums are not damaged. Too hard bristles will cause gum bleeding and may result in oral infections.

M-shaped bristles are also ideal to ensure the bristles reach all tooth crevices. The M-shape ensures that the shape of the teeth is taken in to consideration to allow the bristles to reach all the gaps and remove the food particles collected.

Method 05 : Proper diet

Teeth consist mainly of calcium and phosphorous. A diet inclusive of these elements will ensure hardness of teeth and proper development of new teeth in children.

Raw food is also important as they provide friction to keep gums firm and remove plaque. This in turn prevents decay. These raw foods are known as detergent foods.

The following food products are also invaluable in obtaining the perfect teeth:

• Millet and sesame seeds – Source of calcium
• Sunflower seeds – source of vitamin A, fluoride, phosphorus and calcium. Prevents gum bleeding
• Food containing chlorophyll (a green pigment), such as parsley, turnip, beet and radishes and Neem sticks – contributed towards maintaining healthy teeth
• Rose water, spirit and peppermint mixed with water – can be used as a refreshing mouthwash.