A smile is one of the nicest gifts you can give. And a bright, healthy smile can make you look younger and more appealing.

To keep your gorgeous grin, floss every day, brush thoroughly at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet will also help your teeth stay strong. Some foods and beverages, however, can be detrimental.

You have likely heard that drinking coffee can stain teeth over time and sugary snacks can lead to cavities, but you may not know that lemonade can also damage teeth. Lemonade is made up mostly of acid, which can penetrate the enamel layer of teeth, and sugar, which can cause tooth decay.

Acid, from foods like lemons, can strip the enamel from teeth and lead to sensitivity and pain. Drinking plenty of water aids in protecting your teeth from acid wear. Staying hydrated also hinders halitosis, or bad breath.

Chewing gum also covers bad breath, and it can help prevent cavities. Chewing gum produces saliva, which washes away food particles and bacteria that can remain in your mouth after eating. Additionally, there are enzymes and antiseptic in saliva that kill bacteria too. Studies have shown that sugarless cinnamon-flavored gum is most effective at killing bacteria.

The American Dental Association® recommends that you always use a soft toothbrush and follow this method for brushing your teeth:

• Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Don't forget that it's important to floss as well.

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