Category: Cosmetic Dentistry

Blog posts about cosmetic dentistry including veneers, whitening, bonding and orthodontics.

Everything You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening Kits: What Works, What Doesn’t

In this article we are going to investigate how teeth whitening kits work, which one you might wish to choose and how you can stay safe whilst having your teeth white and shining.

Teeth whitening kits have become very popular in recent years as people are looking for ways to improve their appearance quickly and easily. But, with such a wide range of products on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will take a look at how teeth whitening kits work and some of the best ones that are available. We will also discuss how you can stay safe while using them.

How do teeth whitening kits work?

Most teeth whitening kits use either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as their bleaching agent. These chemicals break down the molecular bonds of the stain molecules, making them lighter in colour. The bleaching process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the staining.

Which teeth whitening kit is right for me?

There are many different teeth whitening kits available on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you, with many dentists choosing to have different options for teeth whitening. The best way to choose is to consider your needs and budget. If you have only mild staining, then a home-use kit may be all that you need. However, if your teeth are severely stained, you may require more powerful bleaching agents, which can only be administered by a dentist.

How can I stay safe while using a teeth whitening kit?

It is important to remember that teeth whitening kits should only be used under the supervision of a dentist or other qualified dental professional. Over-the-counter kits may not contain enough bleaching agent to be effective, and can actually cause damage to your teeth and gums if used incorrectly.

If you are considering using a teeth whitening kit, it is best to speak to your dentist first to find out which one is right for you. They will also be able to advise you on how to use it safely and effectively.

Can you have teeth whitening with sensitive teeth

If you have teeth whitening with sensitive teeth, there are a few things that you can do to make the process more comfortable for you. One is to use a toothpaste made for people with sensitive teeth. This will help to reduce the amount of pain and discomfort that you experience during the whitening process.

You could also try using a cold compress on your teeth before or after the whitening treatment. This might help to soothe any sensitivity that you may have.

Finally, be sure to speak with your dentist about your concerns and they will be able to recommend the best course of action for you.

Having teeth whitening with sensitive teeth doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on all of the benefits of having whiter teeth. By following these tips, you can have a more comfortable and successful whitening experience. Speak to your dentist.

In conclusion, teeth whitening kits are a great way to improve the appearance of your teeth quickly and easily. However, it is important to choose the right one for you and to remember that they should only be used under the supervision of a qualified professional.

The truth about teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that has been around for decades. The truth about teeth whitening is that it’s not as simple as the toothpaste commercials make it seem. In fact, some dentists are now warning people to stop using teeth whiteners because of their harmful side effects. Read on to learn more about this complicated topic and how you can still get a white smile without having to worry about any risks or complications!

How teeth whitening works

Teeth whiteners contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which break down into oxygen. The oxygen reacts with the stains on your teeth and bleaches them until they fall off (or until your teeth become brittle and break off at the gum line).

It sounds like quite the simple process, but there are a few things you should know before you go teeth whitening. For starters, teeth whiteners can be quite harsh on your teeth and gums, so it’s important to use them correctly and according to your dentist’s instructions.

Another thing to consider is that teeth whiteners will only work on natural teeth – they will not have any effect on crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have any of these dental treatments done, your teeth may not lighten as much as you would like them to.

And finally, teeth whitening is not permanent. The effects of teeth whitening will last anywhere from 3-6 months, so you will likely need to do at least one round of teeth whitening each year to maintain your white smile.

The risks of teeth whitening:

As with any cosmetic dental procedure, there are some risks associated with teeth whitening. The most common side effect of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity, which can range from mild sensitivity to severe pain. In some cases, teeth whitening can also cause gum irritation and increased plaque build-up.

If you are considering teeth whitening, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and talk to your dentist about whether it is right for you. Teeth whitening is not for everyone, so be sure to do your research before making a decision.

In the end, teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to get a whiter smile, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and side effects before you decide to undergo the procedure. Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening and see if it is right for you!

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Tooth Whitening: Home Remedies and Prevention Tips

We all want to look our best, and sporting a beautiful, white smile can go a long way to freshening our look and brightening up our face. Dentists offer teeth whitening treatments that can be extremely effective, however there are also various techniques you can try at home to get rid of plaque and stains and to lighten up dull-looking teeth.

They say you’re never fully dressed without a smile, so read on to discover some top tips for getting shiny, white teeth from the comfort of your own home. Always consult a dentist before embarking upon any home whitening treatments and ensure that your teeth are as healthy and well looked after as possible. Brush and floss at least twice a day and stop any additional treatments straight away if you experience any pain or sensitivity as a result.

Cut out the acid

This tip may not secure you rapid results, but it is an excellent way to not only improve the appearance of your teeth, but also strengthen their condition and boost your overall oral and physical health.

Foods with a high acidic content can wear down the outer enamel coating, eventually exposing the more yellow dentine underneath. This erosion can also leave your teeth more vulnerable to cavities. So, try to avoid or cut down on high-acid foods, such as citrus, sugar, sodas and processed meals. While on the subject of making changes to the diet, avoid dark coloured food and drinks too, such as tea and coffee, red wine, cola and tomato-based sauces.

If you must have them, use a straw and finish your portion or drink in one go to minimise the time your teeth will be in direct contact with them.

Activated charcoal

More and more people are becoming aware of the tooth whitening benefits of activated charcoal. It is easier to find toothpaste containing this ingredient, and you can also make your own version at home. Activated charcoal was historically used to treat poisoning due to its propensity to absorb, or bind with much of what it comes into contact with. Including yellowing plaque or teeth stains. It removes surface stains only without harming the enamel surface underneath. It works as a paste smeared on the teeth, left for five to ten minutes then gently rubbed or brushed away.

Saliva-inducing foods

Eating food that naturally produces lots of saliva can be an effective way of encouraging your mouth to treat itself, washing away bacteria and gently rubbing away yellowing plaque and other stains. Foods that you have to chew down on can work well, such as celery or carrots to encourage saliva and act as an abrasive cleanser to clean the surface enamel without having to resort to chemicals. Another bonus is that saliva has been proven to help neutralise the acid in food and drink that causes tooth decay.

Home whitening kits

This may seem an obvious one, but you can find home whitening kits in chemists, supermarkets and other stores that you can try at home. These range in price, but all tend to work in the same way, with a whitening substance, such as hydrogen peroxide, that you paste onto your teeth, that you brush onto your teeth or add to a mini tray that molds to fit your teeth as you bite down onto it and leave to work for a specified time. Always read the instructions very carefully and ask your dentist about any teeth whitening treatments intended for home use if you are unsure.

Water, water everywhere

Another universal top tip for optimum oral health is to make sure you drink enough water. This has benefits for the teeth as every time you swill your mouth with water, you are dislodging food debris that can attract bacteria, as well as removing lighter stains and helping to loosen deeper ones. Water can also get in between teeth to help support your flossing efforts and stop yellow patches from forming along the edges of your gums. Rinse your mouth with water after every meal to keep your teeth free from as many stains and bits of debris as possible. You might like to add a teaspoon of salt to add to its anti-bacterial properties and help keep your gums healthy and pink.

Baking soda

Baking soda has natural properties that are mild enough not to damage your teeth if you brush them with it. It is a common ingredient in toothpastes and perfectly safe to brush directly onto the teeth to help them look brighter. Using baking soda is not a quick fix to whiten your teeth at home, but should help give positive results over time. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water to form a paste and use as you would a regular toothpaste and toothbrush.

Stop smoking

Laying off the cigarettes brings multiple proven benefits to your entire body; however, your teeth will especially thank you for no longer exposing them to tobacco that leaves unsightly stains that penetrate into the grooves and dents in your enamel. The longer you smoke, the more stubborn these stains become to remove. Cigarettes can also exacerbate gum disease and bad breath. Using a specialist toothpaste designed to remove tobacco stains can also help whiten teeth dulled by cigarettes at home.

Final tip

To round things off, here’s a sneaky final tip for make-up fans… if you wear a red lipstick that has a bluer undertone to it, this can often make your teeth appear whiter.

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Important Things To Know Before Whitening Your Teeth

If you are not awarded natural white teeth or you have ruined them because of bad habits, do not get discouraged. Everything can be fixed. To get a white-tooth smile in real in dentists clinic and at home also become possible. But, do not forget there are some risks associated with whitening that can affect your teeth afterwards. So, check out those factors before undergoing teeth whitening sessions.

Do You Really Prepare for Teeth Whitening?

No matter how simple whiten teeth procedure may seem, you must be prepared in advance. Visiting a qualified dentist clinic is by far the best way to go. As they know exactly what needs to be done. Their professional cleaning eliminates plaque and stains.

During the whitening procedure, the doctor will most likely prescribe hygiene therapy that shows you how to brush your teeth and tell you which products should be avoided.

“Tea, coffee, beets, dark berries, red wine effect enamel colouring” 

A colourless diet is especially important within a week after the procedure. Otherwise, you will get an adverse effect than the expected. For example, if dyes get to penetrate the porous enamel after bleaching. And of course, if you smoke, teeth whitening seems a very dubious undertaking. If you do not give up this habit, the enamel will soon darken again.

Is There Any Contradiction For Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening procedures should not be undertaken for children under 16 years of age, pregnant and lactating women. Increased tooth abrasion, periodontitis, periodontal disease and other gum diseases put bleaching in doubt. In addition, among the contraindications is untreated caries where once the gel gets into the carious cavity, you will experience severe pain and wearing brace also need emergency dentists services.

If you suffer from tooth hypersensitivity then you probably you should not do whitening, as it itself can provoke this problem. But if you are ready to undergo with remineralizing therapy before and fluorination of enamel after – bleaching is possible. But, it is possible only after consultation with a doctor and with his consent.

Is There Any Difference Between Home Whitening And Dentist Whitening?

First of all, bleaching can be divided into professional and non-professional forms. Professional can be either office or at home or it can combine both of these stages. It is important to understand that cabinet whitening is more aggressive where gels contain 30 per cent or more of the active ingredients like urea or hydrogen peroxide. On the other side, home gels work more sparingly as they contain 7–10% hydrogen peroxide and 16–22% carbamide. 

What kind of whitening is recommend to you? The doctor evaluates the condition of the oral cavity and general health. That is why we do not recommend buying whitening systems for home use at the pharmacy on our own. if you have already purchased one, be sure to show it to your dentist to avoid complications like tooth hypersensitivity, gum disease, enamel damage.

Unfortunately, even in the case of dentist whitening, the result is unpredictable. It depends on the individual characteristics of the body and existing chronic diseases.

Is There Any Benefit of Home Whitening?

First of all, it is worth highlighting the price. Its often much lower cost than visiting a dentist. In addition, home whitening is more gentle. But, you must be disciplined. Once or twice a day for several weeks, you should wear a mouthguard and at due time. Otherwise, the desired effect cannot be achieved. If you are not confident in your abilities or want to get a serious result in a short time, consider a dentist option.

Are Traditional Teeth Whitening Remedies Effective?

In order to explain why folk bleaching agents do not work, you need to understand the meaning of the dentist procedure. As it does not affect the enamel of the teeth or on the dentin – a soft layer located under the enamel. Folk remedies for whitening teeth simply can not penetrate so deeply and act on the surface. The enamel itself is transparent, but the plaque that accumulates on its surface can be coloured darker.

Some of the folk remedies are safe such as soda. It can seriously scratch the enamel because these are abrasives that literally strip off the surface of the tooth. Sometimes brighten teeth only as a result of getting rid of plaque nothing more. if you thoroughly brush your teeth with a paste, brush, floss, use rinse aid and regularly visit a dentist for preventive purposes, then you will not even notice the result of such a folk procedure.

Separately, it should be said about hydrogen peroxide. Yes, it is used in both dentists and home for whitening products, but in gel it is not more than 10% in combination with caring, restoring and analgesic components that can reduce tooth sensitivity. Pure peroxide can seriously burn the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.

Finally, 

Teeth whitening is a serious procedure that requires a detailed examination of the entire oral cavity, which can only be done by a doctor. Do not self-medicate in any case, especially when it comes to teeth. As many problems associated with digestion or even the spine cause malocclusion, increased tooth abrasion and enamel defects get affected.

Folk remedies and systems for whitening bought uncontrollably in a pharmacy. These can not only not help, but also harm your teeth. And if you do not care about the oral cavity: do not visit the hygienist once every six months, smoke, drink a lot of tea and coffee, brush your teeth poorly, then even salon whitening can bring only frustration.

Author Bio:-

Dr. Omid Allan is a skilled and experienced Dentists in Manly West at Dentaland with special interests in Dental Implants and Aesthetic Dentistry. He has been practicing dentistry since 1996 and been involved in implant dentistry since year 2000. 

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All You Need To Know About The Teeth Whitening Procedure

White teeth can be a major boost to your appearance, and with advances in dentistry, there has never been a better time to get a teeth whitening procedure: it’s almost painless, it’s now relatively affordable, and will only take a few hours of your time.

Here, we will discuss all the ins and outs of the teeth whitening procedure, whether there will be risks involved, and your available options.

Let us begin.

Why You Need a Teeth Whitening Procedure

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure to restore the white natural color of the tooth.

The outer layer of a tooth— the enamel—, is semi transparent and so will display the white color of the layer underneath it—the dentin—. The stain on the enamel, which is made by the accumulation of pellicle coating, will affect this transparency, and the ability of the enamel to reflect light. This is the main reason why stained teeth appear yellow, which can be caused by:

  • Natural aging, where the enamel gets thinner and the dentin becomes darker
  • Smoking or tobacco consumption
  • Dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola
  • Not brushing and flossing regularly, as well as other oral hygiene practices

How Teeth Whitening Is Performed

The teeth whitening procedure is usually performed with two different methods: vital and non-vital. Vital whitening procedure is performed on healthy teeth with their nerves intact, while non-vital whitening is performed on a tooth without any live nerve, commonly a tooth with prior root-canal treatment.

Vital whitening procedure

Although there can be various approaches, the most common method here is to use hydrogen peroxide in gel form. 

Hydrogen peroxide is an unstable chemical substance that can break down the colour molecules staining the teeth, turning them into smaller, non-visible molecules. After this process, the teeth will appear whiter. 

“Vital whitening procedure usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes, and might be divided into up to 3 appointments. This will depend on the severity of your stains, how white you want the results, and the chosen methods.”

Markham Stouffville Smile Centre dentist office

If you want, some dentists might also offer in-home teeth whitening procedure. Here, the dentist will manufacture custom mouthpieces according to the impressions of your upper and lower teeth. It’s important to have these mouthpieces perfectly fitted, as they will be filled with the whitening agent. 

At home, you will fill each mouthpiece with the whitening gel (provided by your dentist), and you will wear these mouthpieces for several hours every day. Normally, you will need to do this for one week or two to get the desirable results. In special cases, this process can last for a full month.

To note, there are also over the counter whitening agents available. They can be effective, but usually it will take longer before you get the results you want. Consult your dentist if you want to use these products to make sure they are safe and effective.

Laser bleaching

A relatively new procedure to assist the vital whitening procedure is to use a light (laser, LED light, or others) to accelerate the bleaching process. Light activation can accelerate the performance of the bleaching gel, and so the process can be significantly faster. With laser bleaching, we can wrap up the whitening process in just one visit.

Another benefit is that due to the light precision, laser bleaching can target individual tooth. However, laser bleaching can be significantly more expensive and can cost above $500 per session.

Non-vital whitening procedure

For a “dead” tooth after a root-canal treatment, the vital whitening procedure is usually not effective. This is because the colored stain comes from within the tooth, so we will need a different method to whiten the tooth from the inside out. 

Usually, the process here involves placing the whitening agent inside the tooth, and put a temporary filling to cover it. (Note, the process might be different if the tooth already has a dental crown or a dental implant implemented). This process can last several days, and might be repeated until you get the desired whiteness.

Is Tooth Whitening Safe?

In the past, the chemical bleach whitening gel used to have a higher concentration, and so might cause inflammation and allergic reaction for those with sensitive gums. 

Nowadays, however, the bleaching gel is well-buffered and various researches have been conducted to proof that bleaching and other teeth whitening procedures are totally safe and effective. However, make sure your dentist is using clinically proven products and is performing the right procedures.

Sensitivity issues like minor numbness might occur after the whitening procedure, especially when you eat overly cold or hot food/drink. However, this usually disappears after 48 hours, and if not, you might want to contact your dentist. Mild gum irritation or inflammation is also normal for up to a week after the procedure.

To accelerate the recovery process and remedy the sensitivity issues, here are some things you can do:

  • Wear the mouthpiece for a shorter period if you are on an in-home whitening procedure
  • Use toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth to help with the pain/irritation. Look for toothpastes with potassium nitrate for this purpose.
  • Ask your dentist for fluoride supplement or other fluoride products. This will help in remineralizing your teeth to soothe the pain. There are fluoride products designed to use with your whitening mouthpiece
  • If necessary, take a break and stop the in-home whitening process for a day or two. The pain and irritation will usually disappear within 24 hours.

Also, there are cases where teeth whitening is often discouraged. Since it’s a purely cosmetic procedure, you can move it to a later date if:

  • You are currently pregnant or breast-feeding. The effect of bleach substances to babies are still unknown, so it’s better to postpone the procedure
  • If you have teeth cavities, worn enamel, gum diseases, or very sensitive gums and teeth
  • When you have dental crown with natural teeth color or similar procedures implemented on your front teeth, which can’t be bleached. You might need a laser bleaching procedure to whiten the other teeth.

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How To Lower Your Biological Age With Cosmetic Dentistry

Aging comes with plenty of changes to our hormone levels, our bodies, and yes, our teeth. Especially in women, it can drastically impact the look of your smile. For instance, calcium depletion can cause considerable changes to your overall oral health.

From staining to crowding, and even losing teeth, your smile ages you as much as the condition of your skin. And with all the changes that come with age, including dry mouth, tooth decay, and gum disease, there are real health benefits to cosmetic dentistry. Not only can it help you keep your smile and your confidence, but it will help you look younger, and can even help against gum disease, a weakened chin, and help you avoid other problems as you age.

Protect Against Staining With Cosmetic Whitening

One of the most significant indicators of the age of your teeth is color and staining. Acidic degradation of tooth enamel can leave your teeth with discoloration and stains. You can sometimes see the enamel wearing away on your teeth as greyish, as it wears away the white and reveals your tooth as more translucent.

Whitening or bleaching can help you keep the white shine to your teeth. There are several whitening options available, from drug store simple to more complicated dental whitening you can talk to your dentist about. Over-the-counter whiteners work perfectly fine if you’ve already got healthy teeth and gums.

If you’ve got a lot of visible fillings, or your gums aren’t in great shape, consider checking with your dentist before deciding what type of whitener you should be using. Another option is to stick with whitening toothpaste. These use whitening agents directly in your toothpaste, and work to bleach your teeth a small amount day by day, and might be easier to fit into your schedule than a monthly, or bi-monthly whitening treatment.

Try Veneers to Fix Chips and Cracks

Chips and cracks don’t just change the look of your smile. They also weaken tooth enamel and the overall structure of the tooth, leading to deeper cracks or breaks later on. Even if the chips or cracks aren’t big or deep enough to cause pain now, there’s no guarantee that the wear and tear of the years won’t cause problems later.

Veneers are a fantastic way to change the shape, color, and overall look of your smile. They are generally made of porcelain. They are made to match the color of your original teeth (but you can add a few shades whiter if you need to.) Unlike whitening, they don’t require upkeep to stay white, though you should consult with a dentist on how to properly take care of and protect veneers. You should not use over-the-counter whitening strips or treatments if you have veneers.

Crowns Can Help You Fix Broken or Vulnerable Teeth

If you want to keep your teeth as you age, sometimes, your best bet is a crown. Though they’re more expensive than veneers, they are an excellent way to give your troubled teeth new life. Crowns are perfect for teeth that have been severely broken or cracked, or if you’ve needed any root canals. The crown replaces the surface of your tooth, to protect it from further damage. Like veneers, it is designed to maintain the shape and color of your natural tooth.

Crowns are also a good idea if you have a habit of grinding your teeth. Veneers are primarily cosmetic, and designed to fit on the front of your teeth. Crowns can be installed along the edge of your tooth, protecting you from further cracks or wearing.

Watch Your Gumline

As we age, the collagen in our skin and hair can thin. This can cause wrinkles and grey hairs. But it’s not the only place we need to worry about. Our gumline is also full of collagen. As we age, the depletion of collagen can cause your teeth to look longer, and keep you looking older. Years of aggressive brushing, or gum disease and tartar buildup can also wear away at your gumline. As well as aging your smile, it also exposes the root of the tooth, which can cause a lot of pain, and may eventually require a root canal.

Brushing less aggressively can help, so switch to an electric toothbrush. Dentists can also offer surgical options, with gum grafting surgery to lower your receding gums and keep your smile looking young.

Consider Getting Braces

Photo by i love simple beyond from Pexels

Even if you avoided braces as an awkward adolescent, you might find you need them more as you age. The bad news is that as you age, your teeth and jawline, and even your chin, can start to fall inward. That means even if you had work done, it could begin to collapse.

The good news is, if your teeth are healthy, there’s no age limit to straightening them. Orthodontics can have a massive impact on the look of your smile, no matter your age. It’s a long-term investment, and more complicated than crowning or veneers. But crowns and veneers only last 10-25 years, depending on the material, and your dentist. Braces come in a variety of types and styles, and the effects can last much longer. Just be sure to do your research, so you know what you’re getting into before you make a long-term decision.

Smile More!

If you really want your smile to convey a younger-looking you? The trick is to smile more often! A confident, open expression looks more youthful than a closed off one. Though the research on smiling and wrinkles seem inconclusive, it does suggest that most people find a smile to make you more attractive. Which is sure to make you feel more youthful and confident!

Your smile says a lot about you. But is it aging you? As we get older, everything from a loss of collagen, to a loss of confidence can impact our smile. To look and feel younger, cosmetic dentistry may provide the answer. Whether your teeth are stained from years of strong coffee, or you’re literally feeling long in the tooth, there is a solution to get you the brighter, younger-looking grin that will keep you feeling as radiant and youthful as ever.

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cover photo by Photo by i love simple beyond from Pexels

Whiten Your Teeth Naturally: Most Common and Easy Methods

Image Credit: Image Majestic @ Freedigitalphotos.net

This is a guest blog post.

The Admin Team

You cannot flash your megawatt smile because of your teeth discoloration. Very uncomfortable and embarrassing. Right?

Teeth, certainly are one of the first things people notice. Your teeth are a sign of your health as well as confidence. When making a first impression having teeth that look like you don’t brush them with your best electric toothbrush can send a signal that you don’t really care about yourself.

Bright, yellow-free teeth have been one of the most universally aspirational ideals for ages. Are you 100% satisfied with your smile? If not, you should know the secret tricks of how to whiten your teeth naturally.

The good news is, several distinct factors lead to discoloration, and ruling them out early can keep your teeth brilliant for a long time. Here are the most common and effective methods that can whiten your teeth fast.

  1. Avoid Stain Causers

It might be known that red wine and coffee stain teeth, but they’re certainly not the only culprits that can leave your teeth looking less than stellar. There are lots of other foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, including:

  • white wine
  • blackberries
  • blueberries
  • pomegranates
  • soda
  • barbecue sauce
  • black tea
  • green tea
  • sugary treats
  • curry    
  • marinara
  • paprika
  • turmeric
  • balsamic vinegar

All of these foods or drinks cause or contribute to extrinsic stains. The good news is that extrinsic stains can usually be removed or at least improved. Your dentist will be able to help with this.

  1. Consume Useful Foods

There are foods that can brighten your teeth naturally. Allow you to fight stains and improve your overall oral health by munching on the following:

Apple: Apple improves your gum fitness and stimulates saliva production, which helps to rinse away stains.

Cheese, milk, and yogurt: All of these rich in calcium helps to strengthen teeth enamel and appearance.

Celery, nuts, broccoli, and carrots: The abrasive and coarse abrasive texture of these meals scrubs off stains.

Raw onions: The sulfur located in raw onions stops plaque from forming.

Strawberries: An enzyme called malic acid found in strawberries which naturally removes surface stains lurking on your teeth.

  1. Invest in an Electric Toothbrush

Thanks to their vibrating heads, the bristles of an electric toothbrush move faster than an ordinary manual toothbrush. Therefore, it is better at removing plaque and brushing experience compared to an ordinary toothbrush. You do not need to move with an electric toothbrush just guide it effortlessly around your mouth. The quality electric toothbrushes make it easy to get a better result, cleaner whiter teeth.

  1. Don’t Smoke

In addition to all the dangerous side consequences of smoking, it the tar and tobacco determined in nicotine rapidly yellows people who smoke’ teeth. So, if for no different reason than conceitedness, do your-self a favor and forestall lighting up. Not only your teeth look better besides your heart, breath, and lungs will be healthier.Use Apple Cider Vinegar

  1. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is one of the most inexpensive ways to naturally whiten your teeth. Many people brush with activated charcoal, but dentists recommend that you use it as a mask rather than a toothpaste. It’s just effective and safer to create a charcoal paste. Make the paste by mixing together half and a tablespoon of activated charcoal with just enough water to make it paste-like. Apply it to your teeth, let it sit for three minutes, and then rinse it away.

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5 Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Five benefits of cosmetic dentistry
  1. Boost self-esteem and confidence
  2. More meaningful interactions with acquaintances
  3. Increase chances of landing a career position
  4. More enjoyment sharing family photos
  5. Increase motivation for overall dental care

When we approach the subject of cosmetic dentistry, we understand it is, well… subjective. The reason a person may be considering cosmetic dentistry is different from person to person. It is human nature for a person’s appearance to affect them differently by their own perspective vs. how they are treated by other’s who may or may not perceive their appearance at all. Either way, the take away is this; A person’s smile can affect them extrinsically and/or intrinsically.  Even the most confident people can still be challenged by the presentation of their smile. Here are a few benefits that can be garnered from cosmetic dentistry.

Boost Self-esteem and Confidence

Confidence and self-esteem are the most commonly stated benefits of cosmetic dentistry, and for good reason.  Confidence is the over-arching reason for most of the more specific reasons to have cosmetic dentistry work done. We regularly state that we should be happy with how we are right now, and while this is true, it’s not always easy. Considering the ease of implementation and satisfaction from a great looking smile, it is fair to say, a bit of cosmetic dentistry can help a small issue that adds up to large impacts on a person’s life.

More Meaningful Interactions with Acquaintances

Improving a person’s interactions with strangers goes back to confidence. How people feel about themselves has a major impact on how they feel about the world around them and that includes other people. If we go out in a public setting not feeling good about ourselves, it is very likely we will be guarded and people in this state come across as unfriendly thereby receiving a bit less than friendly reaction from others. On the other hand, if we feel good about ourselves and we have a beautiful smile to show it, the reaction we get from others is going to mirror our welcoming attitude and help us make better connections with new acquaintances.

Increase Chances of Landing a Career Position

The most employable and highest paid skill set is the ability to connect with people. This means anyone who wants this kind of job, these positions are competitive. Very competitive. Just like high level athletes, the details matter when it comes to gaining the leading edge on your adversary in the job market or in the work force. In addition to high level interpersonal jobs, any job where human interaction is the crux of the daily operations will be better achieved with those wearing stronger levels of confidence and a lovely smile.

More Enjoyment Sharing Family Photos

We all see something in a photo that we maybe don’t like so much. If it’s a selfie, we can scrap it and try again. What’s tough is when we or others in the photo don’t like something we or they see and won’t enjoy the image now or even later when a moment of reminiscence comes up. If that something happens to be the smile, perhaps something as easy as teeth whitening can help.

Increase Motivation for Overall Dental Care

Like a shiny new car, we tend to take a hyper amount of care for things that are fresh and new. This can be used as a motivator in furthering great dental health. The first step to cultivating a habit of bettor oral care could be a consult for cosmetic dentistry. This may not apply to everyone, but if it helps… then why not? This is an opportunity to learn how oral health can affect the overall well being of a person. Imagine feeling better physically and feeling better about your smile at the same time!

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help

Cosmetic dentistry is a great investment if it makes you feel good, smile more, and connect with others more closely. We know it will. What’s more, there are many options to make cosmetic changes to your smile. To make that first step, perhaps something as simple as teeth whitening is a way to start! Take a look at some cosmetic dentistry services to learn more or contact a local cosmetic dentist to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a more confident smile.

Guest written by: James Toon, Web Developer and Content Writer

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Why do I have white spots on my teeth, and what can I do about them?

Healthy teeth have a beautiful luster about them that looks very attractive, just like the pearly white teeth of children. However, some people do develop white spots on their teeth. These white spots not only mar your smile but may indicate an underlying adverse health condition. It is essential to take care of the issue as soon as you notice a white spot on your teeth or the teeth of your children.

Causes of White Spots

There can be several factors which can, individually or severally, be the causes for white spots on your teeth. These include enamel hypoplasia, dental fluorosis, poor oral hygiene, or even too much consumption of certain foods which are excessively sugary or acidic. Let’s look at some of the possible causes of white spot formation.

Dental Fluorosis

This is a common cause of white spots on teeth. Dental Fluorosis is a condition which causes mottling of teeth because of exposure to very high levels of fluoride to children whose teeth are developing. It can be a delayed result of excessive use of fluoride as a baby. On the other hand, fluoride treatment is often given to children to prevent dental decay or caries who do not have sufficient mineral content in their teeth to prevent cavities. Dental fluorosis is a harmless condition which is cosmetically managed veneers or crowns. 

Hypoplasia

Hypoplasia of the dental enamel is another common cause. It occurs. Due to the formation of enamel on the teeth which is very weak. Enamel Hypoplasia occurs only during a young age when the teeth are still developing. It cannot be ignored because it is a severe deficiency, and lack of healthy enamel increases risk of developing teeth cavities.

Poor Oral Hygiene

There is a possibility of poor oral hygiene causing white spots on teeth. This happens when the bacteria inside the plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth release acids which attack the enamel layer and result in the removal of the mineral component. When this happens, small white spots are appearing on the affected tooth which indicates the initial developmental stages of teeth cavities.  Causes for poor oral hygiene can be neglect, or difficulty of cleaning when wearing braces.

Unbalanced Diet

Lack of saliva due to various underlying medical conditions, or acidity in the saliva as a result of poor dietary balance can also lead to the deterioration of the enamel and formation of white spots. Excessive consumption of acidic or sugary foods is a common reason for raising the acidity level of oral saliva.

How to Treat White Spots?

There are multiple possible steps to treat white spots on the teeth. Exactly which treatment is suitable will depend on the underlying cause.

·         Microabrasion of Enamel- In this procedure, your dentist will rub away a tiny layer of enamel that has been affected, followed by placing a suitable filling agent. Usually, this treatment will be followed by teeth bleaching to restore a more uniform color.

·         Teeth whitening or bleaching– Teeth bleaching can be done by a professional or using any of the DIY kits available to remove the stains which develop on the white spots.

·         Dental Veneers – these are fragile plastic shells called veneers can be placed over the affected teeth to hide the white spots or any problematic stains. Surfaces must be placed by a professional and are relatively expensive.

·         Topical fluoride- Topical application fluoride on teeth with enamel hypoplasia will help reduce the white spots by promoting the development of enamel. A dentist will do this.

Prevention

As wise people say, prevention is the best medicine. It is right in dentistry also. The following practices will help prevent white spots and other dental problems.

·         Good Oral Hygiene– This is the most effective practice for preventing white spots or any other dental conditions. It would help if you practiced brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Flossing in addition to brushing will provide additional safety. The idea is not to permit food particle to remain sticking on surfaces of your teeth because that ted to get converted to acid.

·         Balanced Diet– Sugary and fatty foods are more likely to get converted acid if they remain stuck to the teeth. Avoid excessive/frequent use of such foods. If consumed brush or at least rinse your mouth thoroughly and vigorously.

·         Regular Dental Visits– This is an essential practice which people may ignore with severe consequences. Your dentist can observe things in your mouth which you cannot. With his or expert training, he or she will notice any impending problems and take or advise preventive steps. This can result in significant savings in later treatment expense and avoidance of discomfort.

White spot lesions ruin smile and facial esthetics. However, the good news is that they can be easily prevented; by eating a balanced diet, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.

That’s it! This is the secret to having a beautiful and charming smile.

Disclaimer: The information provided through this article is generic and is not personal dental advice, it does not take into account the physical state, medical status and/or health requirements of any particular individual, which are relevant to the proper diagnosis and treatment of any problem, condition or disorder. The person writing this article may also have researched the answer using the Internet. Consequently, you should never use or act upon this information without first properly consulting, and seeking proper information and advice from a qualified dentist.

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What everyone should know before getting dental braces

Want to get back you nice smile and you need braces, but don’t know what to expect?

What are the costs? What are the best types available? What are the steps involved? What are the risks involved? Are they painful?

Fear not, by the end of this article, you’ll have an answer to all of these questions and some!



Ready? Let’s dive right in!

What types of dental braces are there available?

Traditional Braces

You might think of these braces as those awful ones like in The Ugly Betty.

Well, this is what they used to look like. But not anymore. They are now much lighter in weight and structure than they used to be.

They are made from a high-grade stainless steel and have metal brackets that are attached to each tooth using some kind of cement.

Each bracket is linked to the other one with a thin archwire basically drags your teeth (slowly) in the correct position.

These archwires are in turn attached to the brackets using tiny elastics known as ligatures or o-rings.

Ceramic Braces

These are very similar to the traditional braces. They work the same way, but the braces are made from a clear, transparent ceramic material.

The advantage over the traditional braces is that they are less visible to others.

The disadvantage is that sometimes patients might  occasionally find that the elastics become discolored, which can cause marks on the teeth.

Fortunately, your orthodontist might recommend you to use a special solution to apply to your teeth in order to protect them against cavities.

Damon Braces

This is one of the most popular type of dentists because it provides gentler treatment and you have to go less often to your dentist. So you also save time and money.

But this is not the only advantage.

Damon braces are self-ligating and use a slide mechanism instead of elastics to connect the archwires.

This means you will see faster results because your teeth can move on their own, without needing to be adjusted.

And because the braces are self-ligating, they cause put less pressure on your teeth, so you feel less pain.

And there’s one more advantage to this. It’s also easier to keep them clean.

Clear and Removable Aligners

Invisalign is like a mouth guard with the advantage that it aligns your teeth.

You can remove them anytime you want and you can clean them whenever you want.

The disadvantage of this type of braces is that you have to change them out for a newly made one every two weeks. This is because one the aligner brings your teeth closer, it isn’t good anymore. So basically, each new aligner takes the adjustment of your teeth one step further.

Forsus Appliances

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get screened by an orthodontist at the age of 7.

This is because at this age you have the most chances to correct your teeth fast.  

As you can see from the picture above, this device basically uses a spring that attaches to the braces and adjusts the upper or lower jaw into position.

Palatal Expanders

When you have overcrowded teeth, you have 2 options: extract the tooth or use palatal expansion.

In the past, tooth extraction was preferred. But today, fortunately, you can save your teeth by wearing this device which basically applies pressure to the back of your upper molars to gradually move your teeth farther apart.

This expands your palate and makes it possible for other types of braces to be fitted to correct the position of your teeth.

What are the best type of braces?

As you’ve already seen, there isn’t a “best type”.

You choose your dental braces based on 3 factors:

  1. How overcrowded your teeth are (severe cases require different type of braces)
  2. How visible/comfortable you want them to be
  3. What is your budget (Invisalign costs a bit more than traditional ones)

Either way, only your dentist can tell you for sure what type of dental braces you actually NEED.



Are dental braces painful?

The answer is both yes and no.

You will feel a mild soreness or discomfort after the orthodontic wire is engaged into the newly placed brackets.

This discomfort may may last for a few days to a week while your teeth will be a bit more sensible when you bite, depending on how hard is the food you eat.

Either way, you won’t feel any deep pains.

Another discomfort you may also feel at first is that you may feel that your braces are sticking out, which is completely normal.

As you get used to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear and will cease to be a concern.  

In fact, when you get your braces off, your teeth will feel strange without them for a while, too!

How much do dental braces cost?

Again, it depends.

But here are some numbers, just to get an idea.

  • Metal braces (traditional braces) : $3,000 – 7,000
  • Ceramic braces : $4,000 – 8,000
  • Lingual braces : $8,000 – 10,000
  • Invisalign : $4,000 – 7,400

What are the next steps?

If you have overcrowded teeth, only your dentist can give you a pertinent advice. Depending on the severity of your problem, he can recommend you what you should do next.

But one thing is for sure, the sooner you go to a dentist, the sooner you’ll get back your beautiful smile!

About the author

Patrik Bindea is a growth hacking marketer and the owner of Strodin Dental Marketing Company, where he helps dentists get more patients. He obsessively tests different marketing ideas until he finds those details that turn strategies, concepts and words into sales.  

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