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It\u2019s been accepted in society that white teeth are more attractive to look at. It\u2019s something many of us aspire to have because it makes us more attractive, confident, and trustworthy. It also implies that we take good care of our teeth and care about daily self-care. However, it\u2019s possible to have a white smile and still have unhealthy teeth and poor oral care habits.<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re getting your tenth teeth-whitening treatment in-office or you\u2019ve cleared the shelves of take-home whitening kits from your local pharmacy, it doesn\u2019t mean you can put off your oral hygiene. No amount of whitening will protect you from the harmful bacteria living in your mouth.<\/p>\n
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Seeing a product on your supermarket shelf tout its teeth-whitening abilities makes it very enticing to purchase. The idea of wearing whitening strips while you go about your day sounds far more convenient than brushing multiple times a day. However, there\u2019s one big difference when it comes to these products compared to at-home care: fluoride.<\/p>\n
Fluoride is the active ingredient in toothpaste responsible for removing plaque buildup you\u2019ve gathered throughout the day. It\u2019s also what prevents tooth decay and gum disease from occurring. Teeth-whitening products don\u2019t contain this ingredient. Instead, they contain hydrogen peroxide or other abrasives designed to whiten teeth, not clean it. It\u2019s exactly why the American Dental Association states that a fluoridated toothpaste is needed to properly protect your smile.<\/p>\n
The only way to protect your teeth is through thorough, daily, at-home care. To be extra sure that the product you\u2019re using is effective at preventing cavities and gum disease, check for the ADA\u2019s Seal of Approval. This shows the manufacturer went the extra mile to confirm its product\u2019s safety and effectiveness for your teeth.<\/p>\n
When brushing, use short, controlled strokes that focus on each individual tooth. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle towards your teeth so you\u2019re getting the bristles on the front, back, sides, and cracks of your teeth. After brushing, use waxed floss to get the sides of your teeth that your brush misses at least once a day, ideally right before bed.<\/p>\n
According to the ADA, patients should be visiting their dentists once every 6 months for exams and cleanings. This number can fluctuate depending on your risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease. If you have or are at higher risk of periodontal disease, your dentist will likely want to see you every 3-4 months to ensure your teeth and gums are in good condition.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t be fooled by over-the-counter whitening products; your dentist in Bedford sure isn\u2019t. Commit to at-home care and regular dental visits today!<\/p>\n
Dr. Ron Hendricksen<\/a> graduated from The Medical College of Virginia -School of Dentistry in 1973. After serving in the U.S. Army Dental Corp for two years, he opened his practice. Since then, he\u2019s continued his education and become a member of many dental societies and associations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To learn more about his practice, contact him at (540) 587-5707 or visit his website<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" It\u2019s been accepted in society that white teeth are more attractive to look at. It\u2019s something many of us aspire to have because it makes us more attractive, confident, and trustworthy. It also implies that we take good care of our teeth and care about daily self-care. However, it\u2019s possible to have a white smile […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n