How to make your smile brighter

Your smile makes a huge difference to what people think about you and how you feel about yourself.

And there are many options available to help you improve the look and brightness of your smile, including:

In-office bleaching: During chair-side bleaching, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent.

At-home bleaching: There are several types of products available for use at home, which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter. These include peroxide bleaching solutions, which actually bleach the tooth enamel. Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard.

Whitening toothpastes: All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes include special chemical or polishing agents that are more effective at removing stains. However, unlike bleaches, they don’t alter the intrinsic color of teeth.

Start by speaking to your dentist. He or she will tell you if whitening procedures would be effective for you as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration.

Preventing tooth decay in babies and infants

The habits of good dental care should begin as early as possible and it’s important to take steps to avoid problems with infants and children.

Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food and baby teeth also keep a space in the jaw for the adult teeth.

If a baby tooth is lost too early, the teeth beside it may drift into the empty space. So, when it’s time for the adult teeth to come in, there may not be enough room. This can make the teeth crooked or crowded.

The name given to decay in infants and children is baby bottle tooth decay.

It can destroy the teeth and most often occurs in the upper front teeth – though other teeth may also be affected.

Decay can happen when sweetened liquids are given to an infant and are then left clinging to their teeth for long periods. Many sweet liquids cause problems, including milk, formula and fruit juice.

What happens is that bacteria in the mouth use these sugars as food and then produce acids that attack the teeth.

It’s not just what you put in your child’s bottle that causes decay, but how often. Giving your child a bottle of sweetened liquid many times a day isn’t a good idea.

Here are some tips to avoid baby bottle tooth decay in your children:
– After each feeding, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean gauze pad. Begin brushing your child’s teeth when the first tooth erupts. Clean and massage gums in areas that remain toothless, and begin flossing when all the baby teeth have erupted, usually by age 2 or 2.
– Never allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juice or sweetened liquids.
– If your child needs a comforter between regular feedings, at night, or during naps, give them a clean pacifier recommended by your dentist or physician. Never give your child a pacifier dipped in any sweet liquid.
– Avoid filling your child’s bottle with liquids such as sugar water and soft drinks.
– If your local water supply does not contain fluoride (a substance that helps prevent tooth decay), ask your dentist how your child should get it.

Start dental visits by the child’s first birthday and make visits regularly.

If you think your child has dental problems, take the child to the dentist as soon as possible.

Is it safe to have an X-ray while pregnant?

Some women worry about whether it’s safe to have an X-ray exam while they are pregnant.

This can cause them to put off treatment they need.

However, untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Sometimes this will mean an X-ray is necessary.

Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low but every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure.

For example, a leaded apron reduces exposure to the abdomen and should be used when a dental radiograph is taken.

In addition, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children.

Overall there is no reason to avoid dental radiographs (X-rays) while pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant.

Follow your dentist’s advice and ask questions if you have any concerns.

Crowns and how they improve your teeth

To make sure you have the best smile possible, you may need a crown to cover a tooth and restore it to its normal shape and size.

A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and strength, or to improve its appearance.

The reasons you may need a crown include:

– Protecting a weak tooth
– Holding together parts of a cracked tooth
– Restoring an already broken tooth
– Supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left
– Attaching a dental bridge
– Covering badly-shaped or severely discolored teeth
– Cover a dental implant

If your dentist recommends a crown, it’s probably to correct one of these conditions.

Your dentist’s primary concern, like yours, is helping you keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

How mouth protectors can save your teeth

If you take part in sports that carry a significant risk of injury, you should wear a mouth protector.

Accidents can happen during any physical activity and, if you participate in sports such as football, hockey, basketball, baseball, gymnastics and volleyball, you might be grateful for the extra protection one day.

Something as simple as a misdirected elbow in a game, or a spill off a bicycle, can leave you with chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss.

Mouth protectors usually cover the upper teeth and they can cushion the effect of a blow to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.

In addition, if you wear dental appliances such as braces on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as well.

A properly fitted mouth protector will stay in place while you are wearing it, making it easy for you to talk and breathe. The three main types of mouth protectors are:

Stock: These are inexpensive and come ready to wear. But they often don’t fit very well and they can be bulky making breathing and talking difficult.

Boil and bite: These can also be bought at many sport stores and may fit better than stock mouth protectors. You first soften them in water, then insert them and allow them to adapt to the shape of your mouth.

Custom-fitted: Protectors that are specially made for you by your dentist are more expensive but are likely to fit better than one you buy off the shelf.

Choosing to wear the right mouth protector can help you avoid serious long-term damage to your teeth and mouth.

Why it’s not inevitable that you’ll lose your teeth as you get older

Advancements in dental techniques and the increased focus on preventive dentistry means older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer than ever before.

A survey by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research showed that the rate of toothlessness in the 55 to 64 age group has dropped 60 percent since 1960.

Whatever your age, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home and to visit your dentist regularly. A few simple steps can help you maintain good oral health throughout your life.

Plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease, can build up quickly on the teeth of older adults, particularly when they neglect oral hygiene. This can increase the risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease.

So it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.

Regular dental checkups are also an important part of caring for your teeth.

This can help you save your teeth and gums and prevent other dental problems. It will save you time and money in the long-run as well.

Achieving a Hollywood smile: How cosmetic dentistry has revolutionized the entertainment industry

Hollywood is known for its stunning celebrities and their bright, white smiles. But did you know that many of these celebrities owe their perfect smiles to cosmetic dentistry? In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has revolutionized the entertainment industry, making it possible for stars to achieve their perfect smiles. Here's how cosmetic dentistry has transformed the entertainment industry.

• Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures, and it's no surprise that it's popular in Hollywood too. Teeth whitening can dramatically improve the appearance of a smile, making it brighter and more youthful. Many celebrities undergo regular teeth whitening treatments to keep their smiles looking their best.
  
  
• Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic issues, such as misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, and stains. Many celebrities, such as Tom Cruise and Zac Efron, have credited their perfect smiles to dental veneers.
  
  
• Invisalign: Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces, and it has become increasingly popular in Hollywood. Invisalign uses clear, custom-made aligners to gradually straighten teeth over time. Many celebrities prefer Invisalign because the aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
  
  
• Dental Implants: Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, and they have become increasingly popular in Hollywood. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, making them an ideal solution for actors and actresses who need to maintain their appearance.

Cosmetic dentistry has transformed the entertainment industry, making it possible for stars to achieve their perfect, Hollywood smiles. From teeth whitening to dental veneers, Invisalign, and dental implants, there are a variety of cosmetic dental procedures that can improve the appearance of a smile and boost confidence. With the help of cosmetic dentistry, anyone can achieve their dream smile, just like their favorite celebrities.

A guide to popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, including veneers, bonding, and teeth whitening

Cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to improve the appearance of their smiles. There are various cosmetic dentistry procedures available to address common dental concerns, including discolored, chipped, misshapen, or missing teeth.

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry solution that involves placing thin, custom-made shells over the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can address a variety of issues, including discoloration, gaps, chips, and misshapen teeth. The procedure involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel and then bonding the veneers to the front of the teeth. Veneers are durable and can last for many years with proper care.

Dental bonding is another popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can correct chipped or misshapen teeth. The procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected teeth and then shaping and polishing the resin to match the surrounding teeth. Bonding can be completed in a single office visit and is a more affordable alternative to veneers.

Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dentistry procedure that can improve the appearance of stained or discolored teeth. In-office whitening treatments use a strong bleaching solution to whiten teeth by several shades in a single appointment. At-home whitening treatments involve using custom-made trays and a bleaching gel over several weeks.

Invisalign is a cosmetic dentistry solution for people with misaligned teeth. The procedure involves using clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces and can improve the appearance of a person's smile without the embarrassment of bulky braces.

There are various cosmetic dentistry procedures available to address common dental concerns. Whether you're looking to improve the appearance of discolored teeth, correct chipped or misshapen teeth, or straighten misaligned teeth, a cosmetic dentist can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

The benefits of a bright, white smile: How cosmetic dentistry can enhance your appearance

A bright, white smile is often associated with health, youthfulness, and attractiveness. Unfortunately, factors like aging, diet, smoking, and certain medications can cause teeth to become stained or discolored over time, which can negatively affect a person's confidence and self-esteem.

Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry offers various solutions to improve the appearance of discolored or stained teeth. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, and it can effectively brighten teeth by several shades. In-office teeth whitening treatments can be completed in a single appointment, while at-home whitening treatments involve using custom-made trays and a bleaching gel over several weeks.

Dental veneers are another popular cosmetic dentistry solution for improving the appearance of teeth. These thin, custom-made shells are placed over the front of teeth and can improve the color, shape, and size of teeth. Veneers can also be used to correct issues like gaps between teeth, misshapen teeth, and chipped or cracked teeth.

In addition to improving the appearance of teeth, cosmetic dentistry can also have a positive impact on a person's overall appearance. A beautiful smile can enhance a person's facial features and give them a more youthful and vibrant appearance. It can also make them appear more approachable and confident, which can be beneficial in personal and professional relationships.

Cosmetic dentistry can help improve the appearance of teeth and enhance a person's overall appearance. Whether you opt for teeth whitening or dental veneers, the benefits of a beautiful smile can be life-changing, boosting confidence and self-esteem, and leading to a happier, more fulfilling life.