Top teeth tips – the expert guide to a sparkling smile

TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY TEETH

Teeth are not tools “Using your teeth as a bottle opener is a risky habit that should be avoided at all costs,” says Dr Alan Clarke, lead dentist at Paste Dental. “There is a high risk of tooth fractures or chips when you use your teeth to forcefully pry something open. The force exerted during this action can exceed the limits of what your teeth can handle, leading to structural damage that may require extensive dental treatment to repair.”

Take aged garlic “Incorporating aged garlic into your routine can help reduce bleeding gums and oral inflammation,” says Dr Clarke. “In a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, researchers delved into the effects of aged garlic on oral health. The study found compelling evidence that taking a daily supplement of aged garlic can significantly reduce oral inflammation.” Try Holland & Barrett Garlic Capsules, £12.99.

Rinse after coffee “Certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine and berries, have the potential to stain your teeth over time,” says Dr Raj Juneja, principal dentist at Face Teeth Smile Dental Clinic. “Limit your consumption of these staining substances or try using a straw to minimise direct contact with your teeth. Additionally, consider rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them to reduce the risk of staining.”

BRIGHT SMILE MAKE-UP

Blue tones whiten teeth “The lip shades that make your teeth look white are colours with a hint of blue,” says Dominic Skinner, director of make-up artistry at MAC. “This doesn’t mean wearing blue lipstick, though that can be fun, but choose shades that are cooler toned.” Try MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo, £20, or a raspberry or fuchsia shade. “You can also try cool pinks like MAC Satin Lipstick in Snob, £20. But steer away from colours that have a warmer coral or orange tone,” adds Dominic.

Overdraw your lips “Slightly overdraw your lips including the outer edge,” says Dominic. “This extends the lines of the mouth in a subtle way, so when you smile it looks bigger.” Try Kylie Cosmetics Velvet Lip Kits, £20, which come in nudes, reds, pinks, corals and plums, and feature a matching liquid lipstick and lip liner that can be used to fill in and accentuate lips.

Just add gloss “If you want your lips to look bigger, add a little lip gloss to the centre of the lip,” says Dominic. “This added shine will make lips look fuller and rounder.” Try Suqqu Treatment Wrapping Lip in Tougyoku, £28.

Contrasting liner “To give yourself an enhanced pout use a darker lip liner on the outer corners and a slightly lighter colour in the centre of the lips,” says Dom. “The subtle contrast gives an illusion of fuller and plumper lips.” Try Maybelline Colour Sensational Lip Liners, £4.99 each.

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