Ask anyone what physical feature they value the most in the opposite sex and they will probably say 'teeth'. A radiant smile not only looks attractive and welcoming - it also shows people that you are healthy and that you take good care of yourself. Plus, it is not only with the opposite sex that good dental care can pay off for you. It can also help you advance your career, especially if you are in a customer service based role, and it can help to build your personal confidence and self-esteem. No one wants to feel self-conscious about their smile, especially when smiling is such a natural thing. If you are feeling unsatisfied with your teeth, here are some things you can do to improve the health and appearance of them. 

Eat and drink with caution 

Aside from our intake of sugar, we don't often think about the effects that our diet can have on our teeth. But there are many other types of food and drink that can prove damaging to our teeth, especially in terms of their aesthetics. We all know to avoid candy and sugary sodas, but very starchy foods such as potato chips can also be responsible for an unnatural plaque build-up in the mouth. Red wine and coffee are also responsible for the staining of the teeth, so make sure to limit your usage on a weekly basis. Alcohol can also cause an excessively dry mouth and can inhibit the production of saliva, which in turn can make us more susceptible to mouth and gum infections. With that in mind, it is best to be mindful of how much you drink. 

Visit a cosmetic dentist

Sometimes, the damage done to our teeth is regrettably irreversible. Your hygienist may be able to tell you what issues your teeth present, and in some cases, they may be able to help you. But more often than not they will refer you to a cosmetic dentist who is specially trained to deal with improving the appearance of teeth. Procedures at a cosmetic dentist can vary hugely depending on what your problem is. If you dream of whiter teeth, it may be worth looking into a cosmetic whitening service (some of these can make your teeth up to 16 shades lighter) or even porcelain veneers. Dental cosmetic bonding can also help to fix minor tooth flaws. 

Up your personal dental care routine 

Even if you do go for cosmetic dentistry, it is up to you to maintain the upkeep of that dentist's work. Implementing a good routine for your dental hygiene can be the difference between having great teeth for the rest of your life, or being right back at square one. Make sure you buy a quality toothbrush (electric is best) and replace it every few weeks to keep it as hygienic as possible. Flossing and using a mouthwash can also help to rid your mouth of any harmful bacteria, and sugar-free gum is a great option for when you are on the go