Dental Care 101 for Sparkling Teeth
Our smiles are very public. We smile at strangers, at our friends, coworkers and loved ones. For those of you dedicated to keeping our pearly whites bright, we’re sharing our secrets to keeping your teeth strong and sparkling white!
Brush 2x per day
Studies show that on average, people spend about 1 minute brushing their teeth, which only removes about 60% of plaque. It is recommended to brush twice per day for two minutes to prevent gum disease, infection, and to keep your teeth nice and white!
Use a good toothbrush and toothpaste
All toothbrushes are not equal. Choose a scientifically designed toothbrush that will help you reach all corners of your mouth and a toothpaste that has fluoride in it. If you’re shopping for a new toothbrush, look for the ADA Accepted Seal of Approval, or visit their website to peruse your options. For the best whitening toothpastes, choose Colgate, Crest or Tom’s brands. Click here to see all of the ADA Accepted whitening toothpastes.
Eat a healthy diet
If you can avoid certain acidic foods that may damage your teeth, why not try to eat foods that can strengthen the health of your teeth? A study done by the Dental Investigations Society says that cheese and dairy items can help strengthen teeth because they are high in calcium and low in acid. Cheese also contains a protein called casein, which can stop bacteria from attaching to teeth. This means that dairy products can actually help prevent cavities!
High-fiber fruits and veggies like apples and broccoli can be great for teeth. Since they require some effort to chew and break down, this results in extra saliva production which helps neutralize harmful acids in the mouth. As you chew on these foods, it cleans your teeth with their fibrous pieces acting as natural scrubbers, getting rid of bacteria as you chew. Another study done by the Dental Investigations Society shows that the iron in broccoli acts as a natural acid barrier over teeth, preventing acid from decaying teeth.
Change your toothbrush
You should change your toothbrush every 3-4 months, when it shows wear, or when you feel better after being sick. In-between, be sure to give it a good rinse using hot water and store it upright in a rack or a cup (this can help prevent mold).
Floss every day
Flossing daily is extremely important to maintain dental hygiene and white teeth. This removes plaque that is harmful to your teeth, and believe it or not, your heart. Click here to find ADA approved floss.
Nix the aerated drinks
Colas and energy drinks cause stains to your teeth. To keep your teeth their whitest and brightest, try not to drink them. If you do, try using a straw to minimize the stains.
Avoid tobacco
The nicotine will deteriorate teeth and will cause tooth decay and bad breath.
Whitening treatments
Zoom: Zoom is an in-office teeth whitening treatment that will lighten the discoloration of enamel and dentin.
Discoloration may be the result of smoking or drinking coffee, tea, cola, and red wine. This whitening procedure uses the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp to accelerate the whitening process, activating accelerated hydrogen peroxide whitening. It will make your teeth their whitest in just over an hour!
In-home Whitening Kits: Another option is our in-home whitening kits, which are easy to use and will produce great results in about 4-6 weeks.
With each of these treatments, it’s important that you schedule a consultation first so we are able to discuss your options further.
The benefit of cosmetic dentistry is a greater confidence and a new outlook on life! Contact our office today at (239) 936-0597 for a consultation if your teeth aren’t at their brightest. We can’t wait to see you!
