Keep Your Teeth Purdy

Sometimes having a disability can be so complicated, hard, and stressful, that keeping our teeth in good shape is the last thing we have time to think about. For me, one of things I've been big on ever since I was a little girl has been good dental hygeine. My mom raised me to be that way and I'm glad. After my injury, things were trickier in re: to doing everything like flossing and such (with affected hands), but I eventually found my way. Here are my top dental tips:

- Reach Flossers: Go get one. They're cheap, easy to use, and really are the best way to floss on a daily basis. If you hate flossing, have problemos flossing with regular floss, this is your tool of tools. Floss every night to get all the food between your teeth from your previous meals. Food will and does get stuck between your teeth. I even dated a guy who flossed after everytime he ate. Loved it!

- Crest Pro-Health (alcohol-free) Mouthwash: This stuff tastes way better than Listerine, plus it keeps your breath minty-fresh for 12 hours. I like to use the cap too as my cup to rinse with water afterwards. Leaves less clutter on the countertop.

- Electric toothbrush: Yes, these babies really are better than the non-electrics. Just brush until it turns off (usually 2 minutes). I just love the timer feature. That way you know when you've brushed enough. Make sure you brush behind your teeth, and on your tongue too (jncluding the way back, where all the germs hang out). There's really nothing than a nasty brown tonuge after a cup of coffee. Brush yo tongue and be careful not to gag yourself!

- Straws: Drinking coffee and red wine with straws may seem wacky, but it prevents your teeth from getting stained. If they do get stained though (another ew), I prefer Crest Whitestrips. They are powerful and work great. Love them!

There's nothing more unattractive than unclean teeth....(or especially a lack of teeth, not sayin' you do of course). Anyways, keep your pearly whites gorgeous, if you can. You'll feel prettier. I guarantee it!