In a nutshell, tooth decay is progressive damage that occurs to your teeth’s surface and eventually its roots, largely due to bacteria and plaque. The bacteria and plaque continuously convert sugars in your food into acids, which wear down the enamel layer of your teeth and eventually bore into the dentin and roots of your teeth.
Tooth decay broadly progresses through five stages:
Any level of tooth decay is bad, but it’s important to know how to reverse tooth decay when you notice it happening ASAP.
Fortunately, there are multiple ways to reverse tooth decay and halt its progress. If you catch it early enough, you might even repair the damage done without needing advanced dental work.
Always use fluoride toothpaste when brushing your teeth twice per day. Fluoride is an effective mineral that can prevent tooth decay by filling in the gaps of your teeth's enamel layer and reducing the effectiveness of bacterial acid.
In other words, fluoride contributes to the re-mineralization process. It can halt tooth decay so long as it is caught within the first two stages described above.
Fortunately, most high-quality toothpaste products contain plenty of fluoride.
You should also drink more water from a community-connected water supply. That's because fluoride is present in tap water in most city and suburb systems in America. The more water you drink, the more fluoride your teeth will benefit from.
Additionally, drinking more water will wash bacteria down your throat and into your stomach, where it will be safely ingested and eventually expelled. Drinking water flushes your teeth and prevents food from sticking in between individual teeth as often.
Furthermore, you can reverse tooth decay and avoid cavities by cutting down on how much sugary food you consume, especially snacks. Cut down on sugary snacks as much as possible, and the bacteria present in plaque will have less fuel to produce acid that attacks your teeth’s enamel layer and dentin.
As an added bonus, eating fewer sugary snacks is sure to result in greater bodily health overall!
Yes, to a certain extent. You can only technically reverse tooth decay if bacteria haven’t progressed into the dentin of your teeth. If bacteria are only present in the enamel layer of your teeth, you can scrub them away with your toothbrush and fluoride and remineralize the enamel layer.
However, if bacteria are present in the dentin of your teeth and eventually reach the pulp of your teeth, a cavity is all but certain. There’s no way to remove the cavity without getting a filling from your dentist.
So, in other words, if you want to reverse tooth decay and prevent a cavity, you have to catch tooth decay early enough to make a difference.
Cavities are no fun at all. Not only can they show up as discolored spots on your teeth, but they can also curse you with permanent bad breath until you get the cavities taken care of. Additionally, cavities come with a host of uncomfortable symptoms like tooth sensitivity, incessant aching, and intense pain whenever you eat or drink hot or cold food and beverages.
It’s a good idea to maintain a great tooth brushing routine to avoid cavities, plus follow the advice below.
As mentioned, always be sure to maintain a top-tier toothbrushing and dental hygiene routine. To do this:
Following a great hygiene routine at home is just the start. You should also see your dentist bi-annually for a thorough cleaning. Your dentist can clean away even more plaque and bacteria and check for cavities or other major dental issues regularly so you aren't caught off guard.
Want to go the extra mile? Eat tooth-healthy foods like leafy green vegetables (which contain plenty of vitamins and minerals vital for tooth health) and be sure to take a calcium supplement or consume some dairy products without going overboard.
Remember, you have the best chance of reversing tooth decay if you catch it early. With that in mind, here are the most common signs of tooth decay.
White spots on the surfaces of your teeth are an early sign of initial demineralization or the first stage of tooth decay. Don’t panic – this means you need to remineralize the enamel layer with fluoride toothpaste and great brushing technique.
If your teeth start to build up more and more plaque – which looks and feels like a white, filmy, and sticky substance – then it’s a good sign you need to brush more thoroughly and frequently. Plaque usually scrapes away with a good toothbrush and some pressure, but it can become hard tartar if left alone for long enough.
If you just can’t get rid of bad breath no matter how many mints you take, odds are there are bacteria in your mouth stinking up the place. Halitosis or bad breath is mostly caused by bacteria in the mouth, so floss a little more thoroughly and use mouthwash to get rid of bad breath.
Of course, you’ll be able to tell pretty quickly if tooth decay has progressed to the point where you have one or more cavities.
Naturally, cavities are characterized by holes or pits in your teeth. Bacteria gradually chew through your teeth if left unchecked and will bore a hole straight to the roots of your teeth, requiring either a root canal or an extraction, along with some reconstructive work on the part of your dentist.
Regular or dark tooth stains may also be a sign of a cavity. But note that “regular” tooth discoloration will likely affect more space than cavity-related discoloration – tooth discoloration that only appears in a small spot is likely a sign of a cavity instead of a regular stain.
If you experience regular pain whenever you bite down on hard food or you drink hot or cold beverages, odds are you're suffering from one or more cavities. It likely means that the bacterial infection has reached the blood vessels and nerves of your teeth, causing increased sensitivity.
In the end, your best bet to reverse tooth decay and avoid cavities is to always maintain a top-tier tooth brushing routine. Be sure to use products with excellent and effective ingredients like fluoride and Calprox: the proprietary ingredient only found in Supersmile products.
In fact, Calprox was designed specifically by Dr. Irwin Smigel to whiten and clean your teeth without causing any sensitivity. You can find this innovative and advanced ingredient in all of our toothpaste products. Combine that with a great electric toothbrush and floss, and you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your dental health.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-enamel-erosion-restoration
https://www.healthline.com/health/enamel-erosion
https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/vitamins-and-minerals.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
]]>So it’s unfortunate that many of us can go entire days without striking a single smile. This is doubly unlucky since smiling can boost endorphins, thereby increasing your mood and the moods of people around you – smiling is contagious!
There are tons of practical benefits to smiling more often, aside from making yourself and other people happy. But how do you get yourself to smile more often, especially if you’re in the habit of frowning more often than not?
This guide is here to explain just that. Let’s dive in!
Lots of folks already know that it’s nice to smile more often. The trouble comes with learning how to do so naturally. After all, no one likes to see someone smiling like it looks like it hurts!
So how can you smile naturally much more often? Turns out, there are a few tricks you can employ starting today!
One great idea is to train yourself, through habit and repetition, to wake up with a smile. It’ll probably take a few days for you to get down, but when you go to bed, tell yourself that the first thing you’ll do upon awakening is smile.
As soon as you wake up and remember, do it! Over time, this habit will become second nature and you’ll start every day with a big grin that readies you to face the world.
You can double down on this effort and train yourself to smile at particular cues. This technique, derived from certain principles from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, will help teach your body to smile automatically without any brain power required.
The good news is you can choose your cues based on whatever you like! For instance, tell yourself to smile every time you open a door (this is a great trick to make yourself seem more approachable when you enter a room or greet someone at your house, by the way). In time, you’ll smile whenever you open a door no matter what!
Even better, this habit will extend itself into other areas of your life automatically. Soon, you’ll be smiling more often, period, not just when your hand reaches for a doorknob.
Even with the above tips, there’s no denying that it can be tough to convince yourself to smile more frequently if you’re in a rotten mindset. You have to feel good and optimistic to feel like smiling.
Take some time in the morning to focus on the positives of your life and the things you’re looking forward to in the coming days and weeks. Shift your mindset to become more optimistic and smiles will follow naturally.
In addition, you might feel like smiling more often if you feel like your teeth are something to be proud of. For that, you may need to whiten your teeth (unless you’ve been blessed with perfect pearly whites – we’re jealous!).
Good news – there are plenty of ways to whiten your teeth, and without stripping away enamel or causing dental damage.
For starters, consider strengthening your teeth’s enamel through re-mineralization. Enamel is a super durable layer of tissue on top of your teeth that protects them from physical and bacterial damage. Enamel is also the part of your teeth that gives them their naturally white color. Dentin, the tooth material underneath enamel, is a little more yellow by default.
Strengthen tooth enamel by making sure your diet includes plenty of calcium and by using fluoride toothpaste and you’ll see a whiter smile in no time, plus enjoy better dental health overall!
As mentioned, using fluoride toothpaste is key. Fluoride is an effective mineral that can fill in the gaps in your teeth’s enamel layer and strengthen it against damage. Fluoride toothpaste is the best choice you can make, which adds to the fluoride you probably already get from your tap water.
Just be sure to use an electric toothbrush, which is better at scraping away plaque and bacteria. Check out Supersmile’s Zina45 Sonic Pulse brush – it even includes a built-in two-minute timer!
You can also look into a whitening toothpaste that contains fluoride as an active ingredient. Some of the best fluoride toothpastes use specialized ingredients that can both whiten and protect your teeth at the same time.
For example, Supersmile’s Professional Whitening Toothpaste uses our primary proprietary ingredient called Calprox, which can both strengthen and whiten your teeth by about six shades in five days without any sensitivity. How neat is that?
By the same token, you can look into using a whitening oral rinse. Mouthwashes are key for sweeping away plaque and bacteria and preventing plaque from forming quickly after your brushing session.
Whitening mouthwashes or oral rinses can also help to whiten your teeth everywhere, not just where your toothbrush bristles can easily reach.
Supersmile’s Whitening Pre-Rinse is an ideal solution for breaking up tooth stains before you brush! Swish this in your mouth before using an electric toothbrush and your teeth will be whiter in no time.
Sometimes the best way to whiten your teeth is to prevent things from staining them in the first place. To that effect, try to avoid drinking as much coffee and tea, both of which are pretty dark-colored liquids that can stain your teeth's enamel over time.
You should also quit smoking, both for the health benefits and the fact that nicotine can stain your teeth in no time at all.
Last but not least, be sure to see a dentist at least twice per year for a thorough cleaning. They can ensure that you aren’t suffering from any tooth decay and prevent plaque and bacteria from discoloring your teeth over time.
All this can sound like a lot of effort. So why go to the trouble of smiling more often in the first place?
It’s all because smiling is good for you in more ways than one. It makes you seem friendlier and more approachable and will improve your social interactions. It can also directly affect your mood, lifting your spirits even when the day is a bit dour.
Just what are the actual benefits of smiling? Let’s take a look at them one by one.
Smiling can literally improve your mood, even if everything else in your life is currently trying to drag you down. That’s because physically smiling activates certain pathways to your brain, which can release endorphins and change your emotional state for the better.
Furthermore, studies show that smiling more often leads to even greater endorphin increases. You’ll feel better when you smile even more if you do it more often.
Interestingly, smiling more often could even positively impact your blood pressure by lowering it. It’s not exactly known why smiling has this effect, although it may be related to the fact that smiling lowers your heart rate and calms you down. It's the perfect example of "fake it 'till you make it" – if you act like things are happy or safe enough to smile, your body will go along with your face's example.
Even better, smiling can improve your immune system. Again, smiling effectively convinces your body that you are relaxed and satisfied, which can strengthen your immune system’s response in a kind of placebo effect.
Of course, there’s no denying that smiling makes you look younger and more attractive. It’s just a fact that we like to look at people who seem like they’re enjoying themselves, regardless of how many wrinkle lines or aging spots their faces might otherwise have.
Alongside the above-mentioned benefits, smiling can provide intense stress relief. If you’re having a bad day or are buckling under the tension at work, try smiling. Chances are that your workload will suddenly seem much more manageable.
Lastly, smiling can provide limited pain relief, probably by releasing endorphins and convincing your body to treat any injuries or discomfort as minor inconveniences as best.
In the end, there’s no good reason not to smile more often. Smiling is contagious, helpful on more than one level, and is all around a great habit to get into even if you don’t feel like it’s worthwhile at first.
If you follow the above tips and practice smiling for just a little while, we’d bet you’ll start smiling more often anyway just from how good it makes you feel.
Sources:
https://www.sclhealth.org/blog/2019/06/the-real-health-benefits-of-smiling-and-laughing/
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/7-benefits-smiling-and-laughing.html
]]>But what happens if you don’t brush your teeth? Surely it won’t matter that much if you go a week without your toothbrush on a camping trip, right?
Wrong. In fact, not brushing your teeth is one of the worst things you can do for your mouth, your smile, and your breath! Don’t believe us?
Let’s take a closer look at the effects of skipping your tooth brushing routine. You’ll quickly see that those dramatic pictures of rotting teeth at the dentist’s office aren’t over exaggerated.
A lot. In fact, not brushing your teeth can lead to a wide range of dental issues. They all begin with plaque buildup.
In short, plaque is a thin white film that builds up over time as bacteria collect on the surface of your teeth and start to reproduce by absorbing sugars and other food materials. Plaque can very quickly bind with sugar, such as the natural sugars found in fruits or the artificial sugars found in sweet treats, and immediately start producing acid.
That acid will then start to wear down the enamel of your teeth. Enamel is the durable and protective layer over the dentin of your teeth – once it’s gone, bacteria can fill in the gap, breaking down your tooth tissue and eventually forming a cavity.
Furthermore, plaque buildup can affect your gums. The acid produced by plaque will attack gum membranes throughout your mouth, leading to gum sensitivity or even bleeding gums.
Of course, left unchecked, this plaque attack will eventually lead to a whole host of more serious dental problems, including rotting teeth, gum disease, and more.
Once plaque builds up on the surface of your teeth, your teeth’s enamel will start to wear down.
This isn’t a temporary problem that can be fixed by a dentist. If your teeth’s enamel decays far enough, it’ll be gone forever. Your teeth will be more vulnerable to cavities and other dental issues for the rest of your life.
But while enamel cannot be replaced once it’s gone, it can be rebuilt or repaired if it is only damaged.
As mentioned, failing to brush your teeth can lead to plaque and bacterial build-up. Given enough time, this can lead to cavities.
When your tooth gets a cavity, it suffers a small spot of decay that can quickly grow over time. If a cavity isn’t filled in by a dentist quickly enough, the cavity might grow and eventually lead to a bacterial infection of your tooth's pulp or center. When this happens, you’re in for an uncomfortable trip to the dentist’s for a root canal. Ouch!
Occasionally, not brushing your teeth could lead to the buildup of actinomycosis, which is a bacteria specific to the tongue. This can, in turn, lead to gum line cavities.
Gum disease occurs when bacteria infect the tissue of your gums through small breaks or through the teeth themselves. Failing to brush your teeth, and especially the gumline (the area where your teeth meet your gums), can make gum disease much more likely.
Gum disease is super uncomfortable, leading to irritation and inflammation, bleeding gums, and even gum discoloration or tooth loss.
In the end, going long enough without brushing your teeth will almost certainly lead to tooth loss.
Cavities will gradually burrow deeper into your teeth, leading to infections of the pulp or tooth roots. When this occurs, your teeth will rot from the inside out and either eventually fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.
With all of the above in mind, it’s easy to see why dentists recommend brushing your teeth so much!
Just like there are consequences for not brushing your teeth, there are also lots of benefits for maintaining a great brushing habit.
For example, brushing your teeth along the gumline can stimulate the gums and lead to a host of extra advantages. When you stimulate your gums' tissue, you increase blood flow to that tissue, boosting the circulation of nutrient-rich blood to fight off gum disease and improve your gums' overall health.
If you stimulate your gums for long enough, their epithelium, or the outermost layer of gum tissue, will thicken and become even better at protecting the gums from bacterial infections.
Furthermore, brushing your teeth can significantly help with halitosis or bad breath. Bad breath is almost entirely caused by bacteria that build up inside your mouth. As they reproduce and consume food particles, the bacteria produce the foul, sulfurous odor we all associate with bad breath.
Brush your teeth regularly and there will be fewer of those bacteria to make the order in the first place. Add flossing and mouthwash to the mix and you’ll have minty fresh breath in no time.
It’s a good idea to brush your tongue, too. In fact, up to 85% of the bacteria that cause halitosis are located on the tongue. If you want fresh breath, don’t just brush your teeth!
In the long term, brushing your teeth will protect their enamel, preventing the enamel layer from fully degrading and leaving your teeth vulnerable to further infections or damage.
The process of re-mineralizing the enamel of your teeth involves binding other minerals to the gaps or damage sites of the enamel layer. This strengthens the enamel over time and keeps your teeth healthy and strong for years to come.
Most recommended toothpastes use fluoride, which is great for re-mineralizing the teeth.
Above all else, brushing your teeth removes plaque from their surfaces, negating all of the negative side effects mentioned above. It’s simple – no plaque means no bacteria, which means no acid, which means no tooth or gum decay.
Technically, if you have perfect brushing technique and use the right brushing products, you can get away with brushing once per day and not see any massive dental problems.
However, most dentists still recommend that you brush twice per day (once in the morning and once in the evening). Brushing twice per day gives your toothbrush more opportunities to scrape away the maximum amount of plaque and bacteria possible.
If you only brush once per day, any missed bacteria could lead to cavity formation or enamel decay. Furthermore, brushing once per day means that there will be 24 hours between brushing sessions.
That’s plenty of time for bacteria to build up, leading to plaque on the surfaces of your teeth and bad breath. Bottom line: it’s always better to brush twice per day if you can manage it.
Absolutely, yes! There’s a reason your dentist constantly tells you to floss more often.
Even if you use a high-quality toothbrush, like an electric model, the bristles won’t be able to clean the spaces between your teeth and other hard-to-reach areas. Floss fills in the gaps (literally) and gets rid of plaque and bacteria between your teeth and in other spots.
It finishes the job started by your toothbrush and prevents tooth decay or cavity formation. Plus, flossing properly lets you dig down and scrape out pockets of bacteria or plaque at the very base of the gumline. In fact, flossing is key for preventing gum disease, alongside regularly brushing along the gumline.
Don’t brush twice per day and call it good there. You have to floss both of those times as well for your dental care routine to be complete.
Just like floss, mouthwash is a key part of any complete dental hygiene routine. Oral rinses that contain antiseptics are super important for killing bacteria missed by your toothbrush and your floss, plus getting rid of excess bacteria on your tongue.
Not only can mouthwash finish off any bacteria that might still be sticking around after brushing and flossing, but it can also fight against bad breath and leave you with a minty aftertaste. It’s refreshing, effective, and even makes it harder for bacteria to form plaque after the fact thanks to its antiseptic properties.
Want to see an example? Supersmile’s Oral Rinse Mouthwash can effectively eliminate all odor causing bacteria and even inhibit plaque formation for hours after your first swish.
Ultimately, it’s never a good idea to skip brushing your teeth or other key dental hygiene practices, like flossing and using mouthwash. Your dentist can only do so much during your bi-annual visit to their office. It’s up to you to maintain top-tier dental hygiene the rest of the time.
Fortunately, you can avoid most of those dental issues just by brushing regularly and by using the right dental tools, like the Zina 45 Sonic Pulse Toothbrush. This electric model features a two minute timer, and ergonomic handle, and four specialized brushing routines to keep plaque guessing. Add a fluoride-filled toothpaste to your routine and plaque will be a thing of the past!
Need some more dental hygiene tools or tips? Check out the Supersmile blog for extra info!
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-enamel-erosion-restoration
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/to-floss-or-not-to-floss
]]>Despite how tough our teeth are when they grow in, they can eventually weaken over time. Our teeth are primarily protected by a layer of superhard tissue called enamel. But although enamel is really durable on its own, it won’t last forever and it can eventually get worn down or weakened just from teeth grinding or from bacterial acid.
Unfortunately, once the enamel layer is gone, it’s gone for good. But on the flip side, you can strengthen your teeth if the enamel layer is still around. How?
That’s what this guide is for! Let’s take a look at some simple ways you can strengthen your teeth, ranging from lifestyle and diet adjustments to special brushing techniques or choices.
Strengthening your teeth isn’t always dependent on buying an advanced electric toothbrush or using a specific type of toothpaste. There are totally natural ways you can strengthen your teeth, as well.
For starters, cut sugar out of your diet! Sugar is the best fuel for the bacteria that form plaque on your teeth. The more sugar you eat, the faster the bacteria can replicate and the more acid the bacteria will produce as a result. Over time, this means more enamel damage and more likely cavities.
If you eat less sugar, not only will you protect your teeth, but you’ll also boost your overall bodily health at the same time! What’s not to like?
Similarly, you can eat food that strengthens or protects tooth enamel. Some of these foods include dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, which all contain plenty of calcium: a key mineral for your teeth’s overall structure and enamel health.
Don’t get us wrong – you should still brush your teeth regularly. In fact, it’s recommended by most dentists that you brush your teeth twice per day, once in the morning and once in the evening. You should use an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
At the same time, however, you should not over-brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth too often can do two potential things:
By most estimations, over brushing means brushing your teeth four times a day or more. You can brush your teeth three times per day and likely not see any negative effects, although two times per day is usually plenty for most people.
If you feel that your twice-per-day toothbrushing sessions aren’t getting the job done, look into upgrading your toothbrush for one of many electric models, which are always more efficient. Or change your toothpaste for better results.
Many of us have a conscious or unconscious habit of grinding our teeth. This can occur during the day or even while you sleep.
But grinding your teeth slowly wears down your teeth’s enamel with time, making them more susceptible to bacterial infections. You should make every effort to stop grinding your teeth ASAP.
If you need help breaking the habit while you sleep, talk to your dentist about teeth guards and other solutions that can halt jaw clenching and other issues while you aren’t conscious.
Your gut microbiome is essentially a system of healthy bacteria that provide a number of benefits:
Your gut microbiome is formed in large part from the food you eat. In this way, the healthier food you eat, the healthier your gut microbiome will be as well. The reverse is also true. If you eat a lot of junk food, your gut microbiome won’t be as helpful and will, in fact, trigger hunger signals so you eat more unhealthy food, starting a spiral of junk food addiction.
You should try to support your digestive health as much as possible. There's evidence to suggest that your gut microbiome can have a big effect on the overall health of your teeth, whether it’s from adjusting the saliva content of your mouth or by inspiring you to eat healthier food in general.
Need some help? Consider trying probiotics, which can add to the healthy bacteria in your gut over time.
In addition to maintaining a great toothbrushing technique, you should also take care of the rest of your mouth by leveraging floss and oral rinses or mouthwashes.
Floss is important for cleaning the spaces between your teeth, as well as scraping out food and plaque from pockets around your gum line. Fortunately, Supersmile offers top-tier floss options – check out our Professional Whitening Floss. It’s woven with Calprox, a proprietary formula that cleans, whitens, and doesn’t cause tooth sensitivity.
We also offer a great Oral Rinse. Mouthwash is perfect for freshening the breath and preventing plaque from forming after you’ve spent several minutes brushing. Try our Oral Rinse Mouthwash if you want to instantly eliminate odor-causing bacteria and protect your mouth against gingivitis!
Above, we mentioned that you could eat enamel-boosting foods for better oral health. But what foods are those, exactly? Turns out, you might want to stay away from dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, as all of these foods are prime fuel sources for plaque-causing bacteria.
Still, there are lots of great food choices you can prioritize instead.
Eggs are widely considered to be a superfood, and for good reason. Eggs are high in protein and a number of vitamins and minerals, making them a great breakfast choice.
However, eggs are great for your teeth since they contain lots of protein and can balance pH levels in your mouth. This, in turn, makes it harder for bacteria to grow and spread.
By the same token, many different types of meat can be healthy for your body and your teeth at the same time. You should stick to lean meats like chicken and fish wherever possible, avoiding red meat like beef except for sparing occasions.
Lean meats provide plenty of protein and don’t include as much fat, leading to greater heart health and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Overall, meats are healthy for your teeth and gums by providing extra protein for tissue regeneration.
You can also try tofu, provided it is fortified with calcium. This can be one of the best replacements for dairy products, as raw and firm tofu that has added calcium can include a whopping 800+ milligrams of calcium in every half cup. More calcium means stronger enamel, which means healthier teeth!
Leafy green vegetables are another healthy choice. For example, spinach is full of minerals like iron and folic acid, along with vitamins A and C. All of these compounds can significantly improve the health of your teeth and provide other bodily benefits as well.
Want a whiter smile? Try eating strawberries more often (though not too much – fruit contains acid that can strip away enamel if you eat them often enough). Strawberries contain malic acid, which is a tooth whitening enzyme. It’s a great treat to give yourself a wider smile without expensive dental work.
Certain fish varieties, like salmon and tuna, are particularly rich in heart-healthy fats and other compounds, like omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids can boost oral health, and especially maintain gum health over the long term.
Want to drink something that has flavor, but don’t want to give in to the temptation to drink soda? Try green tea instead! Green tea has lots of antioxidants, which can assist with keeping the bacteria level in your mouth low and manageable. Antioxidants are also great for overall bodily health.
Technically, yes, but only if the tooth enamel hasn’t fully been stripped away. Weakened tooth enamel can be rebuilt or bolstered by calcium and fluoride. These minerals can fill in small gaps or holes that may have been punched in the enamel layer.
However, it’s important to maintain great dental hygiene as much as possible. If your teeth's enamel ever vanishes entirely, it cannot be replaced.
In the end, strengthening your teeth is an ongoing process, but it’s something everyone can manage with a few lifestyle adjustments and through changing their diets to incorporate certain foods.
You can also check out Supersmile to find all the tools you need to maintain top-tier oral health over the long term, including electric toothbrushes, toothpaste, and more. Contact us today if you have any questions!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/enamel-erosion
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-enamel-erosion-restoration
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/plaque
]]>But what about folks who happen to be vegan? Unfortunately, lots of regular toothpaste products use ingredients derived from animal byproducts, even if they don’t strictly use animal protein in their formulas. For example, lots of regular toothpaste products use propolis: an ingredient sourced from bees.
But if you are a vegan, there’s good news – vegan toothpaste has already been developed by a few brands and it’s becoming more common all the time.
Vegan toothpaste, in a nutshell, is any toothpaste that doesn’t use any animal byproducts whatsoever. It’s a perfect choice for vegans or for people who follow kosher or Halal practices. Vegan toothpaste can be just as effective as “regular” toothpaste, but it’s still important to pay attention to toothpaste ingredients to determine if it’s a great pick for your needs.
For example, vegans dedicated to finding the perfect toothpaste for their lifestyles should still make sure that the toothpaste they choose doesn’t include harsh abrasive ingredients. These include silica or the above-mentioned charcoal or bamboo fibers.
With all this in mind, let’s take a closer look at vegan toothpaste and explore how it works and what ingredients you should prioritize.
Lots of folks believe that vegan products have a handful of extra advantages compared to their “regular” counterparts are alternatives. What about vegan toothpaste?
Vegan toothpaste can be just as effective as other toothpaste products. Most vegan toothpaste products will use vegetable-derived glycerin as one of their primary ingredients. Glycerin is an effective antibacterial compound that can help to bolster gum and tooth health.
Vegan toothpaste products might also use ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, palm oil, stevia, and mint for flavor. All of these can provide antibacterial properties to a toothpaste product and don’t require testing on animals and are not derived from animals or their products at all.
So, bottom line – don’t worry about a higher risk of cavities if you plan to use vegan toothpaste. Cavity likelihood will be driven more by how well you brush, the kind of toothbrush you use (we recommend an electric toothbrush, always!), whether you floss, and more.
However, many people will claim that vegan toothpaste is cruelty-free. This isn’t necessarily true.
Some brands make a big effort toward ensuring no animal cruelty occurs from their toothpaste manufacturing process. But just because their toothpaste doesn’t include any products made with cruel practices doesn’t mean those brands don’t practice animal cruelty in other areas.
For example, Colgate recently came out with a vegan toothpaste. But Colgate’s other products do use animal-derived compounds or ingredients. Some of those ingredients are known to be harvested with arguably cruel methods.
Therefore, don’t count on vegan toothpaste being cruelty-free overall if it belongs to a brand that doesn't practice what it preaches across all of its products.
Similarly, you might think that vegan toothpaste automatically avoids any toxic chemicals. This isn’t always the case, however.
For example, some vegan toothpaste products will include toxic ingredients like triclosan, saccharin, and parabens: preservatives designed to increase toothpaste shelf life but that provide no benefit to your teeth or overall bodily health.
It’s doubly important to check out the ingredients list on the back of a vegan toothpaste product. Don’t be fooled by marketing into thinking vegan toothpaste is automatically healthy without some investigation.
Since vegan toothpaste is as effective as regular toothpaste, it can protect against cavities. But remember that this isn’t due to the vegan aspect of the toothpaste product.
Anti-cavity effects are due to active ingredients like fluoride and xylitol. In fluoride’s case, for example, this ingredient can fill in the gaps of your teeth’s enamel layer and help with the re-mineralization process, strengthening your teeth over time. This makes cavity formation less likely.
The fact that toothpaste is vegan alone, however, does not provide it with any extra anti-cavity effects.
Naturally, the majority of vegan toothpaste products are designed to taste and smell good so that you purchase them instead of their competitors. Many vegan toothpaste products do include mint or stevia as flavoring or breath-freshening ingredients.
But again, remember that vegan toothpaste does not necessarily help your breath smell fresh just because it is vegan. If it helps your breath become fresher, it’s only as an effect of its other ingredients.
Not usually. In fact, many vegan toothpaste products try to avoid any potentially toxic ingredients, like triclosan, SLS, bleach, silica, and more. Vegan toothpaste won’t result in a higher likelihood of cavities, won’t strip away your enamel layer (unless the toothpaste in question contains a harsh abrasive, that is), and is overall a fine choice if your lifestyle demands this kind of toothpaste solution.
In other words, vegan toothpaste only comes with negatives if it includes ingredients that would be bad in “regular” toothpaste as well.
Not at all! Anyone can use vegan toothpaste freely, but it’s a particularly good choice for folks who follow a strict kosher or Halal lifestyle. These individuals can feel better using vegan toothpaste than they would using regular toothpaste if they want to prevent cavities and gum disease.
However, if you aren’t vegan or follow the above lifestyles, you might find it easier to use a regular toothpaste that includes other effective ingredients that are nonetheless derived from animal sources.
It sure does, although what exactly it tastes like and whether you like it compared to other options depends on the flavoring ingredients included. As mentioned above, many vegan toothpastes use stevia as a flavoring agent. But plenty of people don’t like stevia in anything, so they may not find that particular toothpaste a good pick.
Other than the choice of flavoring agents used, vegan toothpaste shouldn’t necessarily taste or feel all that different from regular toothpaste.
Lots of normal toothpaste choices won’t be acceptable options for vegans or other folks because of their primary ingredients.
Glycerin is among the most common toothpaste ingredients you can find. It provides a number of benefits to toothpaste products. It’s a natural ingredient that can preserve and sweeten toothpastes, making them more palatable and last longer without being toxic like parabens.
Glycerin is also effective since it retains paste moisture, preventing it from drying out in the tube. Fortunately, many vegan toothpaste products can now use glycerin derived from vegetables rather than animals or animal byproducts, so they’re almost the same as their counterparts.
Calcium phosphate is another key mineral in most non-vegan toothpaste products. It works alongside fluoride to strengthen your teeth. Your saliva actually produces phosphates naturally, but calcium phosphate is added to bolster the re-mineralization effect and to make sure your teeth have as much calcium as possible.
When combined with fluoride, enamel can be partially rebuilt if it has been worn down over time or has been affected by plaque and bacteria. Unfortunately, calcium phosphate is made from ground animal bones in most cases, so you won’t find it in any true vegan products.
Propolis is a natural substance that comes from honeybees, and it can be harvested either from plants around or from spots inside their hives. This makes it a non-vegan ingredient, but it can be effective in non-vegan toothpaste products.
Specifically, propolis can make your mouth feel better when it is included in your toothpaste. It’s also thought to have some soothing and antibacterial properties, likely as a result of its organic origin.
In the end, vegan toothpaste isn’t necessarily better than regular toothpaste, although it can be the perfect choice for people who follow a vegan lifestyle or who otherwise are not allowed to consume animal products.
It’s always important to check out the detailed ingredients list on the back of any vegan toothpaste tube. The ingredients list should tell you everything you need to know about its safety and whether it’s truly derived from cruelty-free sources.
As with regular toothpaste, vegan toothpaste is only an effective and suitable choice for your needs if you do your research beforehand.
Alternatively, you can check out Supersmile’s Professional Whitening Toothpaste and skip the research altogether! Our premier toothpaste contains tons of fluoride to strengthen your teeth’s enamel, plus other effective ingredients like Calprox: a proprietary compound that not only cleans teeth, but also whitens them!
See what else we offer at our online store or contact us if you have any other questions!
Sources:
https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/whats-in-your-toothpaste.html
]]>These and other symptoms are typical signs of cavities. Cavities are pretty common, but should always be avoided with great brushing technique and discipline since they require a visit to the dentist’s office. Left unchecked, cavities can lead to severe tooth decay and even worse dental problems.
However, lots of people have general tooth sensitivity. No matter how well they brush or floss, cold drinks or hot foods still cause their teeth to pang painfully. It can be difficult to tell whether you have a cavity or just generally sensitive teeth.
Let’s take a closer look at the signs of cavities and explore the symptoms of tooth decay in more detail.
Cavities are pretty easy to spot if you pay attention to what your mouth tells you.
Of course, the easiest and most common symptom of a cavity is a toothache. Toothaches are different from other types of tooth pain. Bite into something a little too hard and your tooth might pang, but that’s not the same as a true toothache.
In contrast, toothaches are incessant and consistent aches that seem to emanate from the core of your tooth. That’s probably because the nerves are being irritated by a cavity or tooth decay. If your teeth hurt even when you aren’t using them, it might be that you have one or more cavities causing trouble.
Even so, tooth sensitivity can also be a sign of a cavity. You’ll specifically want to pay attention to sensitivity when your teeth are exposed to particular things, like hot or cold temperatures. In general, our teeth's roots and sensitive nerves are protected by enamel: the toughest tissue in our bodies.
But cavities can wear down enamel over time, allowing hot or cold temperatures to stimulate the nerves and cause pain.
Similarly, if you get regular tooth pain in a single or a couple of teeth when you eat, drink, or bite down hard on certain foods, like chips or nuts, there might be a cavity working on those teeth.
Some of the more obvious signs of a cavity are visible holes or pits in the tooth itself. Given enough time, a cavity will bore a hole in your tooth by wearing down enamel and dentin. If the cavity lasts for long enough, it could severely affect your tooth and make it brittle or more susceptible to rotting.
Do yourself a favor if you see any tooth holes or pits and see a dentist ASAP!
Lastly, stains or dark-colored spots on the surfaces of your teeth could also be a sign of a cavity. But it’s important to recognize that tooth discoloration can also be at play.
Tooth discoloration occurs when the enamel of your teeth is stained from dark-colored foods or drinks, such as coffee. But if the spots or stains are black, gray, or brown, odds are it’s a cavity rather than regular tooth discoloration.
Not sure which is which? If the tooth discoloration is in a very small, localized spot, it’s probably a cavity. If the tooth stain is much larger, it’s probably regular discoloration.
If your cavities progress for long enough, they could eventually lead to tooth-rotting. This is always a bad development, as it means a dentist will have to pull the tooth and replace it with a synthetic counterpart.
Not sure whether your teeth are too far gone yet? Here are some of the most common signs of rotting teeth.
Rotting teeth are infected with so much bacteria that they’ll need to be pulled. Bacteria, when they reproduce or consume sugars in the plaque on your teeth, will produce a sulfurous, nasty odor.
Basically, if you suffer from regular halitosis or bad breath despite using mouthwash and brushing regularly, a rotten tooth might be hiding in plain sight.
As mentioned above, tooth discoloration in small, localized spots is often a sign of a rotting tooth. If the brown, black, or white spots are particularly vibrant or noticeable, it might be a sign of a bacterial infection that has spread to the root of your tooth.
As with a foul odor, an unpleasant or rotting taste in your mouth is probably a sign of one or more rotting teeth. Bacteria will eventually spread over the surface of your tooth, and your tongue can definitely detect when something is rotten!
If you detect a rotten taste in your mouth, get any rotting teeth pulled as soon as possible. Bacteria from the infected teeth can spread to other, healthy teeth faster than you think.
Sometimes, cavities and rotting teeth can lead to bacterial infections in the gums. If your gum line (the place where the gums meet the teeth) starts to swell or bleed, have a dentist look at your mouth ASAP. The last thing you want is gingivitis or other gum diseases, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
All in all, if you experience any type of toothache, odds are a cavity or a rotting tooth is on its way. Particularly painful toothaches are more likely to signal a rotting tooth that requires a root canal or needs to be pulled compared to minor toothaches that only trigger once in a while.
Not sure whether you have one or more rotten teeth? You can do a sight and smell test.
Rotten teeth will smell pretty similar to regular bad breath, although they will likely smell a little fouler than normal. A sulfuric smell is common with rotten teeth.
A rotten tooth, on the other hand, will appear discolored across much or even most of its surface area. The tooth may have multiple discolored spots in different shades from one another, and it may also feel sticky or soft compared to other teeth.
Brushing and flossing twice per day is the best way to prevent tooth decay, plus avoid a stern lecture from your dentist!
But what if you brush your teeth every day and still get a cavity? Unfortunately, there’s no way to totally prevent cavities. Everyone’s mouth is different, and even the best brushing technique can sometimes still miss small pockets of bacteria, leading to cavity formation.
The best way to minimize the odds of getting a cavity is to brush well twice per day using an electric toothbrush, such as the Zina45 Sonic Pulse Toothbrush. You should also regularly floss, as well as use a mouthwash to clear away extra plaque and bacteria.
Furthermore, get a biannual cleaning from your dentist. They can clear away plaque and bacteria that build up over time or that may be particularly hard to reach with a regular toothbrush.
Absolutely. In fact, mild tooth decay can be partly reversed through the re-mineralization process.
In a nutshell, cavities bore into the enamel of your teeth over time. But if they don’t reach your teeth’s pulp or roots, the bacteria can eventually be removed through regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, and the enamel can be repaired thanks to fluoride and other vitamins.
The best ways to reverse tooth decay naturally are to:
You should also make it a regular priority to see your dentist twice per year. They can perform thorough cleanings and minimize the likelihood of all types of tooth decay.
However, you should visit a dentist if you suspect you have a cavity or a rotten tooth as soon as possible. If you visit a dentist quickly enough, they may be able to repair the damage before it goes too far.
Furthermore, the faster you get a cavity looked at, the faster it can be filled in and the less likely it is that you’ll have to deal with a root canal or a replacement tooth.
All in all, there are plenty of signs of cavities to watch for. Odds are that you’ll be able to nip any cavities in the bud as soon as they start to develop if you pay attention to your dental hygiene and the quality of your teeth.
Even better, you can avoid common cavities by practicing excellent brushing techniques and relying on solid dental hygiene tools. Check out what Supersmile offers in terms of toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrushes, and more in our online store!
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
https://www.healthline.com/health/signs-of-a-cavity
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-cavities
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-enamel-erosion-restoration
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mouth/tooth-decay
]]>But getting a great toothbrush is just the start of long-term dental health. You can’t just buy one toothbrush or brush head and be set for life. In truth, you have to regularly change your manual toothbrush or replace your electric toothbrush head if you want to keep cavities at bay.
Fortunately, you don’t need to replace your brush or brush head all that often. Three months or so seems to be the ideal timeframe for a single brush or brush head. Let’s take a closer look at how often and why you should change your toothbrush from time to time.
In general, it’s a good idea to change your toothbrush or, in the case of an electric toothbrush, your toothbrush head, every three months by default. It takes around three months for the bristles of a regular toothbrush to start fraying and bending, which minimizes their effectiveness and prevents them from scraping away plaque and bacteria as well as before.
Alternatively, you should replace your toothbrush or brush head whenever you notice the bristles are fraying or losing their effectiveness. Check your toothbrush every once in a while before the three-month mark so you are never surprised.
Of course, when it’s time to change your toothbrush or brush head, it’s a great time to give yourself an upgrade. If you’re using a regular toothbrush right now, consider switching to a more advanced Supersmile brush.
After all, our brush’s bristles are designed with a patented 45° angle, allowing the bristles to reach below your gum line and remove much more plaque and bacteria. Best of all, you can pick up replacement brush heads for one of our electric toothbrushes right from our online store, so you never have to go without fresh bristles.
Not sure whether your toothbrush or brush head needs to be replaced before three months? You can check for these specific signs so you know when it’s time to pick up some replacements.
You’ll be able to tell that your brush or brush head’s bristles are worn down from their shape and texture. Normal, effective toothbrush bristles should be straight and pointy without being too sharp or stiff.
Worn bristles will bend far too easily under a little pressure and may be fraying at the ends, splitting into multiple smaller bristles that are not nearly as effective at scraping away plaque.
If you come down with a cold or the flu, you should also replace your brush head ASAP. That's because germs from your current sickness will stay on your toothbrush head for potentially weeks after you have overcome the illness.
The last thing your immune system needs is you shoving germs back into your mouth from an old toothbrush head. Get a new head before you recover from your sickness and start using it after you have gotten better to keep your dental routine clean and safe.
Ever wondered why toothbrush travel containers – whether they hold the entire brush or just the head – have small holes around them? Those holes allow airflow, which prevents the interior environment from becoming warm and moist: an ideal place for bacteria to thrive.
If you end up using a travel container for your brush that doesn't have these air holes, you should get a new brush head ASAP. Odds are bacteria have been breeding in the interim, flourishing in the warm and moist environment provided by the closed travel container.
After every thorough brushing session, you should investigate your teeth with your eyes and your tongue. If your teeth don’t look and feel clean, maybe your toothbrush head needs to be replaced with a fresh version.
However, double-check your technique. In many cases, your teeth may not feel clean since you aren't cleaning well enough below the gum line where the area between the gum and the tooth, called the sulcus.
If you reach for your toothbrush in the morning or before bed and notice a rank smell right off the bat, your brush head might be infested with bacteria. The last thing you want to do is put that brush in your mouth, as all you’ll do is spread the bacteria around and put it on your teeth instead.
Remember, you need to wash your toothbrush head thoroughly and regularly. Wash your toothbrush head every time you use it with soap and water. If you fail to do this after a few times, err on the side of caution and get yourself a new toothbrush head.
We all lose track of time once in a while – it happens! But if you genuinely can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush head, chances are it’s been longer than three months. Get yourself a replacement since you are more than likely overdue for a change.
We’ve talked a lot about how you can tell when you need to change your brush or brush head. But why is this necessary in the first place? Turns out, it’s for lots of reasons!
For one, changing your toothbrush head regularly will prevent bacteria from building up on your toothbrush. Bacteria that build up on your brush can eventually transfer to your teeth's enamel.
Even in the best of cases, bacteria from your teeth's enamel will transfer to the brush head sit there, no matter how well you clean the brush head over time. Eventually, it becomes safer and more hygienic to get a new brush head to prevent bacteria from transferring between your mouth and brush over and over.
For another, getting a new toothbrush head can protect your gums. Your gums require regular stimulation by firm bristles to maintain blood flow and overall health.
Your toothbrushing won’t really protect your gums unless the bristles can get slightly underneath the gum line and clear away plaque that can collect there. Bendy, fraying bristles do a bad job of maintaining gum health and may place you at a higher risk for gingivitis.
Getting a new toothbrush head from time to time also helps you to get rid of more germs than otherwise. Your entire tooth brushing area will be cleaner since you won’t be using the same toothbrush head riddled with germs, which can spread to nearby countertops and other hygiene tools.
The biggest reason to change your toothbrush head overall is because worn and fraying bristles don’t clean your teeth as well as they should. Given enough time, the bristles will become so weak that they want to do a good enough job to maintain dental health.
If you wait for too long and don’t change your toothbrush or brush head, you might see a number of negative side effects since your dental care quality will drop.
For example, you might see more regular gum damage and inflammation. Bacteria and plaque will spread from the teeth to the gums more easily since you won’t be cleaning the gum line as well as you would be with a fresh brush head.
Given enough time, bacteria can produce enough acid that they chew their way into your teeth, eventually leading to tooth rotting and tooth loss.
General dental infections are another potential consequence if you don’t regularly replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head. These become more likely the longer you use the same brush head.
Even in the best-case scenario, you're likely to see at least a little tooth decay in the form of mild cavities or enamel demineralization. This can eventually progress to rotten teeth and full-on tooth loss.
Ultimately, waiting too long to change your toothbrush or brush head will negatively affect your brushing technique and results. Over time, your dental health will suffer and you’ll start to see more tooth and gum sensitivity. Even cavities may crop up more regularly.
Good news, though – you can always find replacement brushes and brush heads these days, even if you have an advanced electric toothbrush like the Zina45 Sonic Pulse.
Interested in what this brush can do for you? You should be! It’s designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. Pair it with Supersmile’s toothpaste – fortified with a proprietary, cleaning/whitening compound called Calprox – and you’ll have a great dental hygiene routine ready to go.
Check out the rest of our offerings as well whenever you need brush heads, floss, toothpaste, and more!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/plaque
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-gingival-sulcus-1059436
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/halitosis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
]]>Yeah, after every meal, sure, but are you supposed to brush your teeth and then floss to get the extra junk out, or should you floss first and then brush?
You might think when you floss depends on personal preference, but there is actually a right and wrong time and way to floss. That’s right. At Supersmile, we’re here to give you the dentist-recommended explanation of when to floss in conjunction with brushing your teeth, so your beautiful smile gets the TLC that it deserves.
The simple answer is: before you brush your teeth, you should floss.
Most dentists recommend brushing twice a day, which would mean that you floss twice a day, but that is a minimum recommendation. However often you brush, you should always make sure to floss first.
As you probably know, the purpose of flossing is to reach into deep crevices between your teeth and gums to get those sticky food particles and the plaque that builds up when your mouth's natural bacteria combines with the sugars and starches in your food.
Even the best toothbrush can’t replace flossing. It may seem like you should floss after you’ve brushed away the top layer of buildup, but it’s actually recommended to floss before you brush your teeth.
The problem with not flossing is that most of the nasty stuff you are unearthing from in between your teeth doesn't just disappear. These particles float around in your mouth until they land on the surface of your teeth, and then they stay there until you use mouthwash or brush your teeth.
Hence, you should floss and then brush to get all of the stuff that floss helped to dislodge from between teeth and below the gum line.
A small study in 2018 found that toothpaste actually works better at cleaning your teeth if you have already flossed and brought the excess plaque out into your mouth beforehand. The reason is that most toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps your teeth stay tough and strong, and by removing the plaque first, your teeth stand a better chance at absorbing the fluoride from the toothpaste because they aren't covered in your breakfast.
It can be concerning to start flossing and then notice that your gums are bleeding slightly and swelling. We know that swollen gums feel super weird under your tongue and no one enjoys having things taste like blood. This is all the more reason to floss regularly. Once irritants like food, plaque, and bacteria have been removed by your regular flossing and brushing regimen, you can say goodbye to any trace of blood while brushing your teeth. Healthy gums don’t bleed!
This might seem like a no-brainer, but there is a right way and a wrong way to floss.
The best way to floss is to measure out between 6 to 10 inches or so of floss and wrap the ends around your fingers so you can get a tight and precise grip. Then slowly (and gently) move your fingers back and forth until the floss slides between two of your teeth. Once it is in, don't just go straight back and forth. Instead, curve your hands first to one side, then the other in a C shape.
That way, you can make sure that you reach all of the trapped plaque and food particles.
If you don't have the manual dexterity for proper flossing, that doesn't mean you should skip it entirely. There are plastic flossers that look like a modified small fork with the floss stretched between the prongs. It's easy to wiggle the floss down between your teeth with a flosser, and you can maneuver your floss all the way back to those tricky-to-reach molars.
If you are one of those people who frequently use toothpicks and figures that there is no reason to floss when you have a handy toothpick, think again. Toothpicks generally won’t bet between teeth the way floss will and simply isn’t up to the task. Toothpicks are sharp, and jamming them into your grin willy-nilly can hurt your sensitive gums. Since bacteria always live in your mouth no matter how many times a day you floss and brush, any wounds in your gums from the toothpick are likely to get infected.
For people with dental appliances like a bridge or retainer that has been cemented in, you will need to get creative with your flossing. However, it is more important than ever to remember to floss with dental appliances because they generate more places for plaque and food particles to hide. It's easy to find a floss threader that you can use to thread the floss through or under the appliance. Alternatively, you could try a floss that has a stiffened end made specifically to thread around appliances and then catch on the other side.
For people who weren't convinced by the dentist beseeching you once again to please, please start flossing on a regular basis, we're going to give you a list of all of the benefits of flossing.
It only takes a minute, and it is totally worth it.
We’ll put it plain and simple. You can be an expert brusher and brush after every meal, but if you never floss, your mouth won't be getting the attention and protection that it so absolutely deserves. Come on, your smile deserves better (like, a lot better).
It is easy to forget about your gums. After all, when you smile, and people compliment you on it, they probably aren't looking at your gums.
Most people think about oral health as keeping your teeth bright and clean, but your gums play an important role in the overall health of your mouth and your teeth. Your teeth are embedded in the gums after all, so if your gums become infected, your teeth might too.
Plus, the infection can reach down through your gums to get at the roots of your teeth! This buildup of plaque and bacteria, left untreated, can cause tooth decay. In extreme cases, it can even lead to tooth loss. This bacteria can also enter the bloodstream through your gums, which has been linked to a host of health issues including dementia, heart ailments, and erectile dysfunction.
That being said, you should always remember that taking care of your smile doesn't stop with your teeth. Your gums and your tongue are essential parts of giving you that white smile you love. Flossing lets you get everything out from between your teeth, like popcorn kernels or plaque. When you leave it sitting around the gum line, the acidic plaque not only causes gingivitis but also starts eating away at the enamel of your teeth.
Part of why people notice that their teeth dull and turn unattractive shades of yellow as they get older is due to the build-up of plaque.
Flossing does not only target in-between your teeth. If you do it properly, it scrapes off the gunk that builds up all around your gum line which becomes plaque and will eventually harden into yellowy tartar.
Of course, you will still need to go to the dentist's office to have them give you a deep cleaning and scrape off that tartar every once in a while, but if you want a 100-watt smile, that means flossing every day!
Wait, what? How can flossing keep you young?
Well, as mentioned above, the best way to avoid gum disease is to incorporate flossing into your daily brushing routine.
Gum disease usually shows itself by causing your gums to swell and bleed or for your teeth to ache, but gum disease is actually much more far-reaching. It even targets your bones!
If left unchecked, gum disease can eventually go after your jawbone. You start with a certain thickness of your jawbone, which decreases as you age, but gum disease can speed that up. If you are a dedicated flosser and “just say no” to gingivitis, you can preserve your jawbone for longer, which means you can look younger. And let’s face it, we all want to stay youthful and beautiful!
Knowing when to floss can make a huge difference in your oral hygiene routine. Flossing first before you brush means that your toothbrush can easily sweep away all of the nasty plaque and food particles that you just extracted with the floss.
This will leave you with fresh-smelling breath and a strong, super smile!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/floss-before-or-after-brushing
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29741239/
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/still-not-flossing-more-reasons-why-you-should#1
]]>As kids, most of us were taught to not drink salt water because it dehydrates you. We’re not suggesting that you drink it, but gargling with salt water can work as an antiseptic when nothing else is available. We know this may sound a bit weird, but it’s true!
Before more effective treatments were commonly available, saltwater was used to keep your mouth clean in the same way we now use mouthwash. Although it’s not as good as the mouthwash you have in your bathroom cabinets, saltwater can still be used today if that’s all you have at your disposal.
Read on to learn more about how saltwater can be used for oral health, and why mouthwash is still the superior option.
Some dentists have started to give their patients hydrogen peroxide rinses before they look into their mouths, helping to clean out bacteria and make the dental cleaning more effective. This is especially true during Covid because it is preventative and oxidizes the virus.
The fact that dental professionals choose peroxide over saltwater should tell you one thing: saltwater gargles are fine in a pinch, but hydrogen peroxide rinses are actually preferable.
Peroxide rinses mix water with 3% hydrogen peroxide to help clean, brighten, and prevent gum damage. You use them the same way you would a saltwater rinse.
There are actually more benefits to hydrogen peroxide, too. The first is one we mentioned before: it helps to clean up the bacteria in your mouth that leads to gum and tooth decay. A 2012 study found that peroxide is effective at improving gum health. It is important to get the entire mouth, particularly the front teeth.
Hydrogen peroxide whitens your teeth as well. It is a key ingredient in some of the best whitening products. The whitening properties are most visible for a few hours after you use it, but daily use can help to whiten your smile consistently, unlike saltwater rinses, that don’t help with whitening at all.
But, hey! You never know when you’re going to get trapped on a deserted island with no mouthwash in sight. It’s nice to know there’s a Plan B in case you find yourself re-enacting Lost, but if you have the option to use hydrogen peroxide: take it.
Saltwater rinsing may be a trend right now, but we’re going to help you separate fact from fiction. Saltwater can help you in a pinch, but it isn’t a miracle cure. The best way to get a healthy, white smile is brushing and flossing twice daily and using a scientifically-backed mouthwash like our Professional Whitening Pre-Rinse. Saltwater may have worked in prehistoric times, but don’t let social media trends send you back to the Stone Age.
We all know that bad breath stinks… literally. The best way to fight back is with a mouthwash like Supersmile’s Oral Rinse Mouthwash. Even if you do get stranded on an island in the middle of the ocean, hopefully you have our on-the-go Single-Dose Powdered Mouth Rinse at the ready. Assuming you forgot your Powdered Mouth Rinse at home, the ocean may be your only option when you’re stranded without a boat (or a toothbrush).
Saltwater rinsing can work because salt is alkaline, which means that it has a pH level of more than seven. For those of you who have not thought about pH levels in a while, less than seven is acidic. Bacteria tend to grow better in slightly acidic environments, like your mouth.
The bacteria on the back of your tongue is mainly responsible for bad breath, so gargling with alkaline saltwater neutralizes the acidity of the back of your mouth and rinses out some of that bacteria.
Saltwater can’t whiten your teeth or improve your gum health like hydrogen peroxide can, but at least your teeth won’t fall out while you wait for search and rescue.
Swollen, bleeding gums are never fun. It’s annoying and painful, but it’s difficult to avoid when you’re stranded on a deserted island without floss or a toothbrush.
Even though salt stings when it gets into cuts, a moment of discomfort is preferable to gums that are swollen for days on end.
The salt helps suck out some of the liquid in the gums, which decreases the swelling (since the gums are swollen with liquid) and can actually help you feel better.
Saltwater can also help neutralize bacteria that can get into the pockets of your gums.
Still, saltwater is only a temporary solution to swollen gums. Today, we have access to mouthwash that can actively heal your gums with hydrogen peroxide. We also have access to dentists who can tell you when your swollen gums are actually a sign of gingivitis. Even though you might have seen it on social media, it’s unlikely that your dentist will recommend a twice-daily saltwater rinse. If they do, we recommend you find a different dentist.
Dental work like implants, getting a cavity filled, or having a tooth pulled can be an uncomfortable experience.
Fans of saltwater rinses claim that they can ease pain and help your mouth recover faster. However, it cannot help more than mouthwash prescribed by your dentist and some over-the-counter pain relievers.
Saltwater won’t speed up your healing process. It can neutralize bacteria and reduce inflammation, if you have no other options available to you.
Scientists performed an experiment in 2016 to test the effectiveness of using saltwater to help speed up healing. The alkalinity in the salt can tell your body where to direct more of a certain protein that can help the recovery process. The proteins attach themselves to the wound, and while they can’t actually help you heal, they can relieve the pain slightly. But there’s a catch: While they found that saltwater can help recovering patients, it has to have a small amount of salt.
Too much salt can be dangerous for healing wounds, which is why you should stick to dentist-approved mouthwash.
At Supersmile, we believe in smiles rooted in science, not social media.
Cavities and other oral issues occur when particles from your food and drinks mix with the natural bacteria living in your mouth. That mixture becomes plaque, which sticks to your teeth and gums. When plaque is left on your teeth, it hardens into tartar. Also called dental calculus, tartar wears away your tooth enamel and can lead to nasty infections.
Saltwater reduces the bacteria because of its alkalinity, and it can also reduce food particles. That’s because any kind of rinse will clear out some of the food left behind.
The small amount of salt in saltwater can help scrub out some of the trapped bacteria in your gums and the deep crevices of your back teeth, but it’s still no match for modern mouthwash.
If you’re worried about tooth decay from plaque buildup, saltwater won’t make things worse. But why would you resort to a prehistoric fix when dentists have invented topical fluoride to remineralize your teeth and prevent decay?
It’s a no-brainer that brushing and flossing twice daily is absolutely necessary for your dental health, but did you know there’s even more you can be doing to promote your oral wellness? Hint: It has nothing to do with the Seven Seas.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult to regularly visit your dentist, so it’s extra important to take care of your oral health at home.
Add mouthwashes and oral rinses to your daily routine for stellar oral hygiene.
And by mouthwashes, we don’t mean something available to Tom Hanks in Castaway, a caveman’s favorite rinse, or that trendy home remedy you saw on Instagram. We’re talking about mouthwash, rooted in science and recommended by dentists to promote your oral wellness. Leave saltwater to the fishes.
Mouthwashes and oral rinses from Supersmile can be used on-the-go or at home during your oral care routine to leave your mouth feeling fresh without any sting, burn, or artificial junk. Like flossing, mouthwash can reach the deep places in your mouth that bacteria love to hide in and that you cannot reach with your toothbrush, no matter how hard you try. Supersmile’s mouthwashes and rinses are an all-natural way to improve your oral health, but unlike saltwater rinses, they’ve been specially created to be effective and safe.
At Supersmile, we believe everyone deserves a super-white, bright smile and healthy gums without compromising their health or using damaging ingredients.
Saltwater has some oral benefits, but it’s no match for specially formulated products backed by science and clinically proven to work. While it’s comforting that the cavemen had options for their oral health, it’s even better to know that we’ve progressed beyond prehistoric medicines.
Although you may see saltwater rinses heralded on social media, now you know the truth. Trends come and go, but with the right tools at your disposal, your healthy smile is here to stay.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/qa/can-a-saltwater-rinse-help-a-toothache
https://www.eatondentistry.com/5-potential-benefits-of-saltwater-rinses
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0159843
]]>If you want to learn more about hydrogen peroxide and how you can brighten your smile like a boss, stay with us!
Most mouthwashes and oral rinses promise freshening and anti-bacteria (though Supersmile helps prep your smile for dramatic whitening results while also washing away bacteria, plaque, food particles, and more!). You can also instantly freshen your breath while keeping odor-causing bacteria at bay.
When it comes to actually swishing that mouthwash, we are here to give you a blow-by-blow set of instructions to follow if you have never really learned the right way to gargle before:
There are plenty of upsides to using hydrogen peroxide -- that is why so many types of mouthwash use it as a main ingredient. It has a range of benefits from helping you out if your teeth are in pain and you are waiting to go to the dentist, to preventing your teeth from developing yellow or brown stains.
Diluted hydrogen peroxide is a great cleaner all around, either in your mouth or around your home.
The reason it is so effective is that hydrogen peroxide is antibacterial.
It helps get rid of the bacteria in your mouth and in your home. If you have any kind of throat infection caused by bacteria, you might be able to soothe it by gargling with hydrogen peroxide.
Even though you spit it out (again, do not swallow it!), some of it stays in your mouth and mixes with your saliva. It can also help if you have a cold and feel all stuffed up because it helps loosen things up.
Lots of teeth whitening products make good use of hydrogen peroxide to keep your smile looking bright.
If you continue to swish with Sueprsmile’s Whitening Pre-Rinse, your pearly whites will look a whole lot whiter in just 30 days.
Pretty soon, your smile will be so brightly beautiful, you won’t be able to stop smiling. Let's just say that 100% of clinical participants saw immediate results for people who use hydrogen peroxide mouthwash, and 100% of them received immediate compliments, too.
Now, it is important to think about the percentage of hydrogen peroxide in your mouthwash. Although there are some mouthwashes with smaller percentages, like just 1 or 2%, you should use a slightly higher percentage if you want to see a noticeable difference in your teeth. Using 3.5% is the minimum usually considered for a mouthwash that will work to whiten your teeth by reducing existing stains.
Here at Supersmile, we believe that everyone deserves to have a beautiful, healthy smile. We have been offering products to help people with holistic smile health for over 40 years.
Our Oral Rinse Mouthwash freshens breath, eliminates odor-causing bacteria, inhibits plaque, and provide long-lasting germicidal protection, all without the sting, burn, and artificial junk found in traditional mouthwashes. If you do not want to have to remember to rinse your mouth in the evening or morning after brushing your teeth, you can also take our Single-Dose Powdered Mouth Rinse with you, so you can whiten your teeth and freshen your breath on-the-go. Like with other kinds of mouthwash, you can swish this.
All you have to do is add water, swish, spit, and go. You can even bring this TSA-approved mouthwash on the plane to boldly go where no mouthwash has gone before!
Supersmile also offers a Whitening Pre-Rinse, the only mouthwash on the market that preps teeth specifically for the whitening process. For the bright smile of your dreams, add our Professional Activating Rods to your routine as well. Our whitening system has hydrogen peroxide to target stubborn extrinsic stains paired with our proprietary ingredient Calprox, which is an encapsulated form of calcium peroxide, to prepare the tooth enamel for premium results without sensitivity.
Unswell Swollen Gums
If you have swollen or bleeding gums, it’s probably a sign of mild to moderate gingivitis. That sounds scary, but it just means that you have not been cleaning your teeth completely, and some of the plaque and bacteria around your gum line may have become trapped which can lead to gum infection.
If this occurs, you should consult with a dentist about possible solutions. These options will likely include flossing more often, switching the type of toothbrush you use, or adding mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide to your daily oral regimen to kill bacteria and germs lurking below the gumline.
If you chose to use a hydrogen peroxide mouthwash in the morning or evening, you should gargle after you have finished flossing and brushing your teeth. Make sure that you swish it over all of your teeth, including the very front. That way, it can get everything that the floss and toothbrush did not reach for a full clean.
We cannot stress this enough: try to avoid actually swallowing anything containing hydrogen peroxide. Accidentally swallowing a little once in a while likely won’t result in much more than a stomach ache, but do your best to swish and spit.
Additionally, while it might be tempting to make your own hydrogen peroxide mouthwash, it’s a lot easier and much more effective to just buy one that not only has hydrogen peroxide, but additional mouth-happy ingredients to help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. Our Whitening Pre-Rinse has been recommended by dentists, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, to keep their patients’ mouths healthy. It prevents plaque that can lead to gingivitis and other serious health conditions while leaving you with fresher breath and whiter teeth.
A mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide is extremely healthy and a great way to brighten your smile. Gargling mouthwash does not just help whiten your teeth, it also kills some of the odor-causing bacteria in your mouth that get trapped around your gum line and on the back of your tongue.
Use a hydrogen peroxide mouthwash, to keep your breath smelling fresh and clean, your mouth healthy and your smile enviably bright!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/gargling-hydrogen-peroxide
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1601-5037.2010.00492.x
]]>At Supersmile, we’re here to share the ins and outs of cavities with you, including important tidbits like how to spot one and when it's time to get some professional help. Armed with information, you'll know your teeth so well that you can take the words right out of your dentist's mouth.
So, let’s explore the forbidden world of cavities to help make sure we keep your pearly whites healthy, happy, and bacteria-free and your smile is 100% ready for the next time you're in the dentist chair.
As the name suggests, a cavity is a hole that develops in your tooth.
We’ll talk more about avoiding getting cavities in a bit, but for now, let's focus on what cavities are and how to identify them.
Generally, the hole is too small for you to see when you say “Ahhh” and look in the mirror.
Even once you already feel the symptoms of a cavity (toothache), you probably will not be able to see it with your naked eye. Get to the dentist as soon as possible so your cavity doesn’t get worse. The dentist will take an x-ray to confirm the cavity and its depth, which will determine the right course of action. Your dentist will most likely share the x-ray results with you as he explains the next steps. If he doesn’t, just ask!
It’s especially important to see your dentist because the so-called cavity symptoms that you’re feeling could be caused by other underlying medical causes. Make sure you mention all of your symptoms to your dentist.
The easiest and most common way to know if something is wrong is the old-fashioned toothache.
It might be a gradual ache or a sharp pain when you bite down on something firm like an apple, but you shouldn't ignore the pain if it continues for multiple days. You might notice that eating extremely hot or cold food triggers the pain, too, even if the food is soft or soupy. This may also happen if you accidentally chip or crack your tooth, although that pain is often much worse than the beginnings of a cavity.
Either way, don't just take painkillers and ignore it; make an appointment to see your dentist.
Checking in with your teeth is a beautiful thing.
With good light and the right angle, you may be able to see a spot on your tooth. It could be black or brown if the infection has already set in, but the spot is often white.
That's the reason it can be so difficult to see.
A white spot might not necessarily mean you have a cavity yet, but it usually signals that the enamel on your tooth is weak in that spot.
With this info, you can take steps to up your smile game, and you may be able to prevent a cavity from forming in the first place. However, you should probably still see a dentist just to make sure.
If you can actually see the hole in your tooth, you should rush that appointment. Unfortunately, by the time you can see a hole, you most likely really need to get that filling ASAP.
Although bleeding or swollen gums are usually signs of gingivitis and not necessarily a cavity, you should remember that having gingivitis makes you more prone to cavities.
The reason is that the same plaque, made of food particles and bacteria, that infects and irritates your gums also rubs away at your teeth's enamel because it is so acidic. Eventually, you can develop a hole from all of that plaque.
Halitosis is the scientific term for bad breath. This isn't a definitive symptom when taken on its own because there are plenty of reasons why your breath may not be smelling minty fresh.
For instance, if you’ve just eaten Italian food, the chances are that your breath may be a little garlicky.
But if you notice that your breath still smells bad even after you brush, floss, use a tongue cleaner, or use mouthwash, that could be a sign of infection in your mouth, either in your gums or in the form of a cavity.
Either way spells trouble for your smile, so get to the dentist on the double.
We hate to break it to you, but every cavity requires a dentist.
There is no way to get rid of the hole in your tooth once it's there.
So, if you think you have a cavity, you should make an appointment with your dentist to get it addressed as soon as possible.
If you wait, it might not seem like a big deal now, but the hole will only get larger, and the longer it stays open, the more chance there is of it getting infected from the food particles and bacteria that naturally live in your mouth.
Without getting into the technical nitty-gritty of the process, the general overview is that the dentist will clean out the hole, check it for signs of infection, and then (assuming they don't find one) fill the hole.
The dentist will make this filling out of the materials covered by your insurance or what the dentist prefers to use. You might notice that some people have silver fillings, some have white ones, and other people even have gold fillings. Whatever material your dentist may choose, filling the hole or cavity is important for a healthy mouth and body
As mentioned above, cavities are usually caused by the build-up of plaque.
Plaque is made of leftover food particles from whatever you ate and drank throughout the day that have mixed with the natural bacteria housed inside your mouth. That mixture easily sticks to your teeth, especially around the gum line. It's acidic enough that it can wear through the enamel on your teeth and cause an infection in the more sensitive layers of dentin underneath.
Additionally, some people grind their teeth in the night, and continual grinding can wear down your teeth enough to cause cavities.
It might be something as simple as falling or running into a cabinet, but chipped teeth happen all too easily. That chip can still become a cavity because it allows bacteria to get inside your tooth.
The best ways to avoid cavities are by keeping your mouth clean and your smile bright.
You can do this by gargling with some mouthwash in between meals, changing out your toothbrush head regularly (every three months is highly recommended), remembering to always floss before brushing your teeth, and doing your best to protect that 100-watt smile. The best way to fight cavities is to brush and floss every day, twice a day for two minutes.
Everyone knows that you should brush your teeth to keep them healthy, but are you giving your mouth what it really deserves?
If you want to fight off cavities, the best way to do it is with a great toothbrush, protective toothpaste, and the knowledge to brush your teeth the right way.
That's right -- there's a right way to brush. It means brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning and before you go to sleep at night, for two minutes each. Less than two minutes doesn't allow you to get every nook and cranny.
Your dentist has probably reminded you dozens of times about the importance of flossing. They weren't exaggerating, trust us!
By flossing before you brush your teeth, you loosen the plaque that builds up around the gum line and in hard-to-reach places.
Plus, you also dig out any annoying popcorn bits and other types of food that easily get trapped in the spaces between your teeth.
In addition to preventing cavities, flossing also keeps your gums healthy and strong. You may notice a little bit of swelling or bleeding when you start your flossing routine, but that should stop as food particles, plaque, and bacteria are removed.
If you are one of the many people who grind their teeth in their sleep, you should talk to your dentist about buying a mouthguard. It might feel awkward and make it difficult to sleep for a couple of nights, but we promise that your teeth will thank you.
A mouthguard won't stop you from grinding and it may cause a little drool pool on your pillow, but it will keep you from creating a breeding ground for cavities.
Also called bruxism, teeth grinding can wear away at your enamel and cause fillings to fracture. Once the enamel has been worn down, bacteria in plaque can continue to eat away at the remaining healthy minerals in your tooth enamel, causing cavities.
A mouthguard can also help your jaw relax a little bit when you drift off to sweet La-La-Land.
Be proactive and stay prepared by keeping your pearly whites brushed, flossed, and minty fresh. You avoid cavities with these helpful tips, and then, if you do by chance find a cavity in your mouth, you'll know what it looks like and to make an appointment with your dentist right away.
At Supersmile, we believe everyone deserves the joy of a beautiful smile, and we have made it easy to get a healthy white smile at home by just brushing your teeth. So make sure you’re giving yours the TLC it deserves every day!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/what-does-a-cavity-look-like
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
]]>There is no guarantee that if a person does not smoke, he or she will not get oral cancer. Dentistry has seen many cases of oral cancer in people who have never smoked. However, the chance of oral cancer increases if a person smokes, and more so if the individual is also a very heavy drinker of alcohol. It has been suggested that alcohol acts as a cleansing agent in the mouth and strips the oral tissues of protective layer that makes them more susceptible to the carcinogenic action of the smoke. Alcohol, consumed in sufficient quantities may itself be a carcinogenic. In fact, many researchers believe it is one of the major causes of oral cancer. How much does smoking commit to oral cancer? Here's one bit of statistical evidence that is revealing. Of people that have recovered from cancer of the mouth, 40% of those who smoke develop second oral cancers, compared to 6 percent of those who do not smoke.
With regard to the effect of smoking on the conditions of the gums in general, there is a rise in temperature in the mouth from the direct heat of smoking that weakens the gums. The smoke also irritates the mouth tissues chemically, as well as causing circulatory problems. If the circulation is impaired, healing after treatment for periodontal disease (and other dental conditions) can be delayed or aborted.
]]>Place the brush head so that the center row of bristles is positioned between teeth and gums. Move brush in quick, small circles for two minutes twice daily. Stand toothbrush upright for hygienic drying. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three months.
Wrap the floss around the side of each tooth in a "C" shape, and then slide the floss gently under the gum line until you meet resistance. Wiggle the floss down, repeat on all teeth. Our Professional Whitening Floss is infused with our proprietary ingredient Calprox® to remove plaque, bacteria, and stains from between the teeth – bringing the benefits of Calprox® and Baking Soda to the gums to keep them healthy. For clean and healthy teeth and gums floss once per day.
Cleaning your tongue can help you eliminate the harmful bacteria and plaque that are the cause of over 85% of bad breath. To use our Ripple Edge Tongue Cleaner, bend it into a "U" shape with the ripple side down. Gently sweep from back to front, and then rinse the tongue cleaner. Replace every three months.
Cavities form when the mouth is too acidic and bacteria proliferates. Our Oral Rinse helps neutralize the pH balance of the mouth, minimizing the formation of plaque-causing bacteria while baking soda eliminates odor-causing germs. Rinse for 30 seconds after brushing to prevent cavities and gum disease.
When is the best age to bring a child to the dentist for the first time? Opinions vary. Some dentists suggest that a child should be brought at twelve months, the age at which plaque develops, and parents should be shown how to remove it. Some dentists believe a one-year-old's first baby teeth should be examined and their diet, and any abnormal tongue or lip habits, be checked. Most pedodontists, however, feel two and a half or three years of age, when all twenty primary teeth are present, is soon enough. They believe any other considerations are outweighed by the child's being old enough to understand what going to the dentist is all about.
Even though dental problems can and do begin in the first year, it is understandable that most parents will not bring a twelve-month-old infant to the dentist. The early responsibility of oral examination therefore lies with the pediatrician who sees the baby regularly and can refer the parents to a dentist or pedodontist if any problems are noted.
What is the advantage of a children's specialist rather than a regular dentist? A family dentist can treat children as well as adults, and often in small towns or rural areas, they are the only dentist available. If the dentist is accustomed to dealing with children, they will probably provide whatever care and treatment is needed. The pedodontist, however, is accustomed to dealing both emotionally and physically with children, and in the case of more serious problems, is specially trained to treat them.
The first visit to a strange dental office can be disturbing, doubly so if the office is designed for adult-sized people. However, not only is the modern pedodontist's office likely to be scaled to children, but the pedodontist's philosophy is child-oriented, as well. Their job is the treatment and prevention of dental disease, but they also want to prevent anxiety about dentists and dentistry.
Pedodontists use techniques that relax, encourage and interest the child; they tell the child what they're going to do, specifically using words that will not frighten, and show them the instruments they will use. The child often watches the entire procedure with the aid of a hand mirror. The examination room in modern pedodontic offices may be one large room with several chairs so the child is not alone but with other children being treated at the same time. This thoughtful, easy approach allays fears even for those who have had previous traumatic dental experiences, and lays the foundation for a positive attitude toward dentists and dental care for the rest of the child's life.
Prevention seems almost too simple to work, but it does. Perhaps it is more convincing if we look again at what is involved when home dental care is neglected-the kinds of problems that keep your dentist and the specialists wDental hygiene should be taught at a young age in order to ensure good oral health throughout life. Studies prove that maintaining a healthy mouth is beneficial to a child's overall health. Parents and teachers should promote dental hygiene habits in the classroom and at home. This includes educating children about which practices to embrace and which to avoid.
What's the appropriate age to start taking care of your child's oral health? Some dentists advise to begin at infancy. Even before a baby develops teeth, parents should use water and gauze to gently massage and clean their baby's gums. Once the baby grows a couple of teeth, parents can use a soft, gentle toothbrush and water to brush the child's teeth. Both should take place before bedtime and after eating, or bottle/breast-feeding.
Dental problems can begin in the first year of a child's life if proper care is not taken. The first visit to the pedodontist should happen at age 1. Parents should begin teaching their children to brush the following year, at age 2. Children around this age should use a tiny, pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on their baby teeth. Most children begin to acquire permanent teeth at approximately 61/2 years old, the suitable age when children should be brushing their teeth on their own. All the while, children of this age group should be learning and forming proper dental hygienic habits as well.
1. Brush twice a day for two full minutes with a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brushing in the evening, just before bedtime, is essential. If a child consumes a something with high sugar content, convince them to drink water and brush afterward.
2. Floss safely and correctly. This can be taught at home through repeated demonstrations. (See our how to floss section.)
3. Visit your pedodontist or family dentist regularly. Maintaining a healthy mouth requires more than home care; dental professionals have the knowledge and skills to perform certain procedures, provide advice, and more.
4. Drink a lot of water each day.
5. Healthy snacking. Eat snacks with high amounts of calcium to support strong teeth.
1. Thumb sucking leads to the mobilization of cavity-growth because bacteria on the thumb or other fingers can be transferred to the mouth. It can also cause structural deformities.
2. Consuming too much candy and sweets also stimulates the growth of cavities by wearing down tooth enamel.
3. Sharing cups, spoons and other utensils may lead to cavity growth as well. As Dr. Smigel warns, cavities are contagious. Cavity-causing bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans are shared through saliva.
1. Visual aids. A good idea is to use a poster or whiteboard calendar as a checklist for your child to fill out in the mornings and evenings after brushing. This will help you both keep track of your child's progress.
2. Games. Parents can encourage good dental hygiene through use of educational games such as crossword puzzles and word searches. Implementing words such as teeth, plaque, hygiene, toothpaste, toothbrush, fluoride and so forth will reinforce knowledge for later recall.
3. Art and Creativity. Provide your child a dental coloring book. This way they can enjoy and respect learning about teeth. Another clever way to inspire good oral health practices is to have them create something personal, perhaps a self-portrait showcasing their smile along with a line or two about what makes a bright, shiny smile, to reinforce these good behaviors.
I developed Supersmile almost two decades ago to whiten the teeth of my early patients with bondings. What I soon discovered was that it worked equally well on natural teeth, veneers, laminates, crowns, braces, and even dentures!
Removing the protein pellicle on a daily basis will prevent new stains from reattaching on to teeth. This keeps any tooth surface or restoration at its original whiteness. Supersmile is a breakthrough, an advanced formula containing calcium peroxide (Calprox®) to whiten without abrasion. It is 75% below the ADA abrasion standard. Baking soda is added for fresher breath and healthier gums, as well as ADA-recommended fluoride to fight cavities.
So there it is: your choices for intelligent tooth whitening.
Many people have tried all types of teeth whitening methods. People whiten their teeth for different reasons. Some want to look younger, others want a quick boost of self-confidence. Still others do it for a special event like a wedding or job interview. Whatever the reason, whitening your teeth can take years off your appearance. It is important to realize that tooth bleaching is not a permanent solution. As mentioned, anything that will stain a white shirt will stain your teeth.
Over time, typical eating and drinking will continue to stain teeth unless you are using a specially formulated whitening toothpaste or whitening system like Supersmile that will non-abrasively remove surface stains from the teeth and maintain the whitening results from other procedures.
There is no dentistry as good as no dentistry.
The real aim of good dentistry (and all good medicine) is to eliminate the need for its existence. While we have many techniques and tools at our disposal to bring teeth back to health and proper function, the thrust of the profession is the prevention of unnecessary dental problems. We know that nothing we can do to repair and restore damaged and diseased teeth is as good as what nature intended for us.
Preventive measures could help avoid a large percentage of dental diseases. And most, if not all, of the burden of prevention falls on the individual. Your dentist can help by treating what is necessary, making certain no new problems are developing, and advise you on how to maintain dental health. The dentist can help, too, with motivation—no one's infallible, and the dentist can help keep your enthusiasm for home dental care high and, as a consequence, your dental bills low. Practically all of the billions of dollars spent each year by Americans on dentistry is spent on restoration rather than prevention; dental floss and toothbrushes are a tiny investment in comparison.
Though we recommend brushing for two minutes twice daily, we place the most emphasis on a thorough brushing before bedtime. During the day you swallow up to 2,000 times, night we swallow as little as 20 times, making your mouth a breeding ground for germs that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Pay close attention to brushing, flossing, but at rinsing and cleaning your tongue every night- especially if you've eaten sugar. Sugar sticks to teeth and creates an ideal environment for germs to proliferate in.
Prevention seems almost too simple to work, but it does. Perhaps it is more convincing if we look again at what is involved when home dental care is neglected-the kinds of problems that keep your dentist and the specialists we've discussed busy.
Restorations. The simplest filling is generally the result of decay. Decay means cavities and most everyone has them-yet their number can be reduced significantly, especially among children, by proper plaque removal (cleaning and flossing), the use of fluorides, and the reduction of refined sugar in the diet. All of those things are accomplished at home.
Periodontal disease. Progressive bone loss that causes loosening and ultimate loss of teeth (if untreated) characterizes periodontal disease. It is often directly related to accumulations of plaque under the gums-and this does not occur if you maintain proper home care.
Orthodontics. Although there are a number of reasons why adult teeth need to be straightened, it is often to correct a bite that has changed because teeth have been lost-loss that might have been prevented with proper home care. In a sense, orthodontics for children is a form of prevention. By straightening the teeth and correcting the bite early, food traps that can cause cavities and abnormal stresses that might create periodontal problems are eliminated.
Endodontics. Most root canal work is required because decay hs reached the nerve-but home care can prevent decay from getting started if decay-causing plaque is regularly removed.
Prosthodontics. Again, the lost teeth that bridges and dentures replace might well have been saved with prevention.
Implantology. More lost teeth-only the method of placing them is new.
Aesthetics. The dentist may be treating patients who have neglected their teeth, who have failed to maintain a home care program and now need to have their teeth made attractive, repaired or replaced so they can eat and speak properly.
TMJ problems. The improper functioning of the joints of the jaw that is often related to teeth that have been lost.
Oral surgery. This is the last stop, after all steps for prevention and salvaging teeth have failed. Most dentists feel that if a usable tooth is lost, it is the ultimate failure.
Since almost every specialty in dentistry and a good deal of any dentist's work consist of repairing damage, it's not surprising that so much emphasis is now being put on implementing programs that prevent the damage in the first place. At this point, there is no infallible technique, but a practical one is there for everyone: the daily removal of plaque at home. Together with this, there are other prevention factors that deserve our attention: diet, effective toothpaste and toothbrushes, self-examination for oral cancer, and regular checkups by the dentist.
Prevention seems almost too simple to work, but it does. Perhaps it is more convincing if we look again at what is involved when home dental care is neglected-the kinds of problems that keep your dentist and the specialists we've discussed busy.
Restorations. The simplest filling is generally the result of decay. Decay means cavities and most everyone has them-yet their number can be reduced significantly, especially among children, by proper plaque removal (cleaning and flossing), the use of fluorides, and the reduction of refined sugar in the diet. All of those things are accomplished at home.
Periodontal disease. Progressive bone loss that causes loosening and ultimate loss of teeth (if untreated) characterizes periodontal disease. It is often directly related to accumulations of plaque under the gums-and this does not occur if you maintain proper home care.
Orthodontics. Although there are a number of reasons why adult teeth need to be straightened, it is often to correct a bite that has changed because teeth have been lost-loss that might have been prevented with proper home care. In a sense, orthodontics for children is a form of prevention. By straightening the teeth and correcting the bite early, food traps that can cause cavities and abnormal stresses that might create periodontal problems are eliminated.
Endodontics. Most root canal work is required because decay hs reached the nerve-but home care can prevent decay from getting started if decay-causing plaque is regularly removed.
Prosthodontics. Again, the lost teeth that bridges and dentures replace might well have been saved with prevention.
Implantology. More lost teeth-only the method of placing them is new.
Aesthetics. The dentist may be treating patients who have neglected their teeth, who have failed to maintain a home care program and now need to have their teeth made attractive, repaired or replaced so they can eat and speak properly.
TMJ problems. The improper functioning of the joints of the jaw that is often related to teeth that have been lost.
Oral surgery. This is the last stop, after all steps for prevention and salvaging teeth have failed. Most dentists feel that if a usable tooth is lost, it is the ultimate failure.
Since almost every specialty in dentistry and a good deal of any dentist's work consist of repairing damage, it's not surprising that so much emphasis is now being put on implementing programs that prevent the damage in the first place. At this point, there is no infallible technique, but a practical one is there for everyone: the daily removal of plaque at home. Together with this, there are other prevention factors that deserve our attention: diet, effective toothpaste and toothbrushes, self-examination for oral cancer, and regular checkups by the dentist.
The Center for Disease Control reveals that 21% of U.S. citizens 18 years or older are smokers. Active as of September 2012, The Food and Drug Administration will begin designating large pictorial labels to tobacco products. The goal is to encourage the public to quit smoking by showcasing the health hazards more distinctly.
"Smoking dries out the mouth and stops the flow of saliva, which helps wash away debris to keep the mouth clean. As a result, bacteria begin to grow and multiply on and in between the teeth, and inside the grooves of the tongue, contributing to inflamed gums, bone loss and bad breath," says Dr. Smigel. Additionally, the Academy of General Dentistry warns that smoking one pack of cigarettes each day for 10 years may lead to tooth loss—at an estimated loss of two teeth per decade.
Unfortunately, smokers are at high risk for even more serious dental health problems:
Tobacco stains, tooth loss, and swollen, irritated or unusually red gums are some of the effects that smoking has on a person's appearance.
Fortunately, there are at-home teeth whitening procedures available that effectively rid teeth of the yellowish-brown stains caused by smoking. Since smokers are at higher risk for dental health problems, we recommend choosing your teeth-whitening system wisely. (See our guide to Safe Teeth Whitening.)
It's important to note that, after whitening teeth, if a person continues to smoke, their teeth will stain again.
Teeth stains are the least of it. Smoking can cause advanced gum disease which can cause permanent tooth loss and damage. In certain cases dentures and bridges may be necessary.
Smoking is also a main cause of premature aging of the skin—particularly wrinkles on the face. Since nicotine deprives the skin of both oxygen and nutrients, smoking will speed up the signs of aging. In addition, the repeated tightening and contracting motions of the mouth while smoking will form deep lines around the mouth as well.
Just as unsafe as smoking, using chewing tobacco or snuff can also lead to dental health problems.
As Dr. Smigel says, "Prevention is the best form of dentistry." To keep your teeth and gums healthy, avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. Studies suggest that chewing gum can help mitigate tobacco cravings. If you choose to chew gum, opt for whitening gum that is sweetened only with xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener and cavity fighter that tastes great too.
]]>Supersmile's product line is one of the first whitening and cleaning systems to be 100% Halal and Kosher-certified.
Since its launch, Supersmile has held the OU (Orthodox Union) Kosher seal of approval, which is respected as "the world's best Kosher trademark." The term Kosher is derived from the Hebrew term Kasher, and is defined as "proper, legitimate, or pure." It applies to Jewish dietary laws and is separated into 3 categories: meat, dairy and pareve (food that is neither dairy nor meat).
Mixing meat and dairy (eating one after the other or with each other in the same meal) is considered Treyf (non-Kosher, or unfit for consumption) while eating vegetables or pareve foods with either meat or dairy can be Kosher, as long as all of the ingredients consumed are Kosher-certified.
In the Islamic faith, "Halal" refers to conduct, dietary and otherwise, that is considered lawful or permitted. Pork and its byproducts, meat slaughtered improperly, and alcoholic beverages and intoxicants are considered "Haraam," or unlawful.
These days, monitoring and tracking food and other products, particularly meat and animal byproducts containing preservatives, is a strenuous task. There are countless steps involved. Thus, there are many agencies - IFANCA for Halal certification, OU for Kosher - testing foods to ensure they adhere to the appropriate respective standards-for example, whether or not the product is processed on the correct equipment, if meat/animal products are clean or unclean, and so forth.
So what makes Supersmile teeth-whitening products earn our Kosher label? Unlike most other toothpaste and teeth-whitening brands, Supersmile products do not contain glycerin-an animal byproduct made out of fat from certain meats (such a beef or pork, for instance). In general, non-Kosher toothpaste ingredients include about 1/3 parts glycerin of their overall chemical make-up. Dr. Smigel states: "Those who are forbidden to eat pork or certain kinds of meats should beware of any toothpaste which isn't Kosher yet contains glycerin."
In fact, many beauty products on the market contain glycerin as a lubricant-shampoo, conditioner and soap, to name a few. There has been some debate among authorities regarding the need for the certification of toothpaste. Some believe it's not necessary, claiming that toothpaste is not a food, while others assert that toothpaste should meet the appropriate standards.
Dr. Smigel explains that "there was no debate" concerning the need to Kosher-certify toothpaste. At Supersmile, we make sure that all our teeth whitening products are 100% Kosher-certified.
The best book in the world on what today's dentistry can do to treat and cure dental disease, prevent it from occurring, and improve appearance is of no use unless you, the reader, form an important relationship of trust and understanding with the dentist who is going to oversee your dental health.
It should be easy, shouldn't it, to find that person. There are fixed standards of training, techniques, and information on new developments that any dentist can take advantage of. But as in any other profession, there are individuals who are good at their work and some who are not so good; there are individuals with different personalities and attitudes, varying expertise in certain areas, and differing degrees of dedication and ambition.
One dentist, though skilled and competent, may simply not be the person for you; the feeling of trust in his or her judgment is missing. Another, for some unexplained reason, gives you the confidence that you're looking for. Yet both are equally capable dentists. How can you choose a dentist, and be sure that he or she is the right one for you?
Of course, you can get advice from many sources, but nothing will be guaranteed. A friend may recommend their dentist, and you may find them a good choice-or you may not. The local dental society can recommend a dentist to you, but then again, there's no built-in assurance, other than that they are a member of the society. The factor of personality and how it matches yours looms very large in the choice, and no list or recommendation is going to assure that it will be a match made, if not in heaven, at least in the dental office. You may be dissatisfied, but you have one important option: if you don't have absolute trust, if you are not at ease, you are free to choose again until you find the right dentist for you.
In making your decision, there are a number of points to consider about what you want-and about what the dentist looking for patients wants.
How the Dentist Finds their Patients
Dentists go about finding patients-namely you-in a number of ways, and we think you may get some insights into how to choose yours if you understand what they are.
Some dentists advertise; others are very social and will always be seen at important functions. A lot of dentists who also teach to build practices from contacts with patients and other dentists met at schools and hospitals. The ideal dentist builds his or her practice by being understanding and doing the most conscientious work he or she is capable of.
We don't suggest you choose a dentist who advertises. Unfortunately, it has been our experience that advertising is replete with false promises and prices that cannot be contained. We should also be wary of the social dentist-not that they are by virtue of their socializing less capable, but rather that they may spend so much time and energy in socializing that they have little left for their practice. As a general rule, you will probably not go wrong in getting a recommendation for a dentist from a nearby dental school, if you happen to live in or move to an area where one is located. At the very least, you should get a dentist who is up to date and aware of the newest techniques. The area dental society, listed in directories online and in phonebooks, can also be called. It will recommend a member, but there may be a rotating list for such recommendations, and you may not be especially lucky in this kind of dental roulette. However, you will be assured that the dentist is an active member of the society, and the odds are that they are competent.
Most of us want more than chances give us, however; we want that conscientious, capable, ideal dentist. It has been my experience that the only way to find him or her is to approach people in your own social, cultural, and economic bracket until you find one who is really sold on their dentist. People you relate to and who share areas of common interests are more likely to have found the same kind of person you want as a dentist. If you anticipate moving, and have a dentist with whom you've had a satisfactory relationship, ask them for suggestions. They may be able to offer the name of a colleague they respect as a starting point in your search for a new dentist.
There's no sure way of finding Dr. Right, but recommendations that come from respect and enthusiasm and common attitudes toward people have the fewest pitfalls.
The Specialists
The general dentist that you choose is responsible for your overall dental health.
Their work is far ranging, and may include restorations such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and partial and full dentures; treatment of dental conditions such as periodontal disease or root canal; extractions; and orthodontia; also, they may insert implants and treat temporomandibular joint problems. They take X rays, advise on prevention programs, and see that your teeth are cleaned professionally at regular intervals.
The degree that is granted to a dentist is either D.M.D. (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) or D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery). There is no difference between the two degrees; which your dentist has depends entirely on the designation chosen by the dental school from which they graduated. From time to time, attempts have been made to choose one or the other to eliminate the confusion, but neither faction is willing to give in, so for the present the two designations continue to exist.
Behind your family dentist there are dental specialists whose expertise is concentrated in a particular area of dentistry. They are trained for and especially valuable in treating more than routine problems. If, in your dentist's judgment, you would benefit by being treated by a specialist, they will refer you to the appropriate one. The specialists are certified as such by boards designated by the American Dental Association.
As a rule you will not be required to find a specialist by yourself, but again, if you have a sense of dissatisfaction with the specialist, you may ask your dentist to refer you elsewhere. At the same time, if you have developed a bond of trust with your family dentist, you will probably be confident that they have referred you to the proper person. Remember, too, that if you feel that you should be seen by a specialist, you shouldn't hesitate to ask your dentist to refer you to one.
Many of us go through our lives without ever seeing a specialist. Every dentist understands and many do the work the specialists concentrate in. However, at least two types of specialists are becoming increasingly common in the lives of young people: the pedodontist, who specializes in children's dentistry, and the orthodontist, who straightens teeth. Of the two, only the pedodontist might be selected by you, very often on the recommendation of your pediatrician. On the other hand, most general dentists treat children as well as adults, and very often in small towns or rural areas the general dentist may be the only dentist available for the whole family.
Types of Specialists
The pedodontist and the endodontist treat specific dental diseases: the former, conditions of the gum and supporting structures of the teeth, and the latter, conditions within the teeth relating to the root and nerve.
The prosthodontist specializes in replacing missing teeth with bridges and dentures. Although the general dentist can and does perform many of the prosthodontist's functions, the special training is especially valuable for difficult cases.
The oral surgeon uses surgical techniques to correct many problems, ranging from the extraction of teeth to the repair of faces damaged by accident or natural defects. Although a good deal of his work may be considered the last resort in dentistry, his special surgical training enables him to perform procedures that may ultimately save lives.
The oral pathologist and the public health dentist complete the list of dental specialties.
The TMJ dentist, who treats conditions of the temporomandibular joint and its related problems provides relief from ailments related to an imbalance of the jaw joint and will doubtless play an increasingly important role in dentistry.
The implantologist is also concerned with missing teeth. Implantology, the art of implanting artificial supports for false teeth, is developing rapidly and can be a future solution to many problems of missing teeth.
The most recent and exciting field of dentistry today is aesthetic dentistry: dental attractiveness accompanied by dental health. Also not a specialty, aesthetic dentistry creates dramatic results in the areas such as teeth whitening, bonding, veneers and even non-surgical facelifts.
The Other Members of the Dental Team
The dentist is assisted in their work by trained individuals who enable the dentist to make the most effective use of their time, to serve more of the public, and to keep costs down.
The dental hygienist is trained to scale and polish the teeth; this professional cleaning is an important aspect of good dental health. The hygienist may also be trained to take X rays, take case histories, chart conditions of the mouth, polish restorations, and apply fluoride treatment. The hygienist is also permitted to assist the dentist as a chair-side assistant and teach preventative home care.
The dental assistant works largely as a chair-side assistant to the dentist, handing them instruments and helping in all phases of treatment. The dental assistant is generally responsible for making appointments, sterilizing instruments, developing X rays, and keeping the office in order. To aid the dentist even further, dental assistants are to take wider responsibilities, under supervision, such as taking X rays and study cast impressions.
The dental technician is a skilled, valuable member of the dental team. Their responsibilities, and what they may legally perform, are the mechanical and technical tasks specified by the written authorization of the dentist. The prescription may call for an inlay, bridge, or denture, to be made from impressions and bite relationships taken by the dentist, and to specifications the dentist suggests. Dental laboratory technicians are employed by small family-type labs, large commercial laboratories, or individual dentists. They also individually, or as partners, maintain their own laboratories.
Peer Review: The Dissatisfied Customer
The American Dental Association feels that its responsibilities are to the patient as well as the dentist.
Toward that end, the ADA has encouraged the formation of peer review committees composed of dentists who will critically and fairly examine any justifiable complaint that you, the patient, may have about your dental treatment. The dental profession supports the system of peer review in every state through the state dental societies, and if you believe that you have received inadequate treatment, you can call the local dental society with your complaint.
The peer review system is not weighed toward the dentist, but seeks to evaluate complaints and treatment fairly; surveys have shown that, in general, more than half of the cases heard by peer review have been resolved in favor of the patient.
How to Afford Dentistry
Money has to be paid somehow, and many people are concerned about an economical way to have good dental care.
Dental insurance plans are now becoming available through trade unions, and companies themselves take up a great part of the burden. There are also private dental insurance plans that are especially valuable for families with a number of children. We like to believe that prevention is the best form of insurance, but if you are offered the opportunity to participate in a group plan for dental insurance, it seems an ideal way to make good dentistry affordable.
Most people prefer to be treated privately, but there are, particularly in cities, other ways to obtain dental treatment that are less expensive and make dentistry available to people who might otherwise not see a dentist. Part of the function of a dental school is to serve the community, and dental care is available to the public, with the work being done by students training under the supervision of their dentist teachers. The cost is much less than private care. Hospitals often have residents only for emergency care, but others have full-time staffs that handle all dental problems. Care here is generally not as inexpensive as at dental schools, but hospitals often make allowances for patients with limited funds. The work is likely to be administered by recent graduates under the supervision of an attending staff of teaching dentists.
Medicaid also covers provisional dental treatment, although some people feel that the mass-production aspect of some Medicaid dental treatments-because of the low fees paid by the government, a large volume must be handled for the dentist to profit-makes them less satisfactory.
]]>
Not only does brushing your teeth properly and thoroughly give you a beautiful smile, but it also prevents the worst of oral ailments.
By using the right toothbrush and oral care system, anyone can avoid nasty conditions like gingivitis and tooth decay. Even using the wrong toothbrush can cause enamel erosion and damage to your gingival tissue. Whether you're brushing too much or not brushing enough, there is a happy medium when it comes to taking care of your pearly whites.
Cleaning your teeth might be as easy as your ABCs, but it should be done properly. For perfectly pink gums and white teeth follow the three T's: Tools, Timing and Technique
1.Tools
Along with the right toothpaste, floss, and tongue cleaner we all need the right tools to take care of our teeth. The ancient Chinese made toothbrushes from the bristles found on cold climate pigs, while other civilizations used "chew sticks" which were comprised of twigs with frayed ends. Thankfully, dentistry has evolved since then and we now have thousands of different options when it comes to picking a toothbrush. Finding the right brush can mean the difference between getting a thorough clean and destroying your enamel.
A typical toothbrush head should cover two to three teeth at a time and many dentists suggest using soft, polished, nylon bristles to gently remove plaque and stains. The ADA recommends that you brush at a 45 0 to ensure the best cleaning between the teeth and gums. Our 45 0 angled bristles are particularly effective, as the angle ensures that germs and bacteria are removed from the sulcus- the area between the teeth and gums where bacteria often gets trapped.
Electric toothbrushes are also a safe option and assist with getting a thorough clean according to The Dental Essentials. Supersmile's Series II LS45 Advanced Sonic PulseTM Toothbrush has all the benefits of an electric toothbrush, but is the only sonic pulse toothbrush incorporating state-of-the-art sonic technology and the precision shaped Supersmile 45 0 angled bristles.
When it comes to the grip, that's entirely up to you. Though certain ergonomic toothbrushes shape the handles to achieve the optimal brushing angle, like the Supersmile LS45. How long should you have your toothbrush for? Three months is what most dentists recommend, or whenever you start to notice signs of wear. If you're recovering from a cold or the flu, replace your toothbrush soon after you recover.
2.Timing
Everyone from children to seniors needs to spend about two minutes brushing their teeth. Use a timer if necessary. The first time you use a timer, you may notice you are drastically under the 2 minutes. It is best to break your mouth up into 4 sections, and focus on brushing each section for 30 seconds.
3.Technique
To begin, apply a small amount (pearl-sized) of Supersmile Professional Whitening Toothpaste to your toothbrush. Preferably, use a circular motion and cover the entire tooth. Point the bristles of the toothbrush towards the gumline in a 45-degree angle, so that the center row of bristles on your toothbrush is positioned to clean between the teeth and gums. You should always hold your toothbrush at a 45 0 degree angle or simply use Supersmile's Patented 45 0 Angled Toothbrush, which guarantees superior cleaning above and beneath the gum line because of the precision shaped bristles. It's vital that you clean the gum line correctly as to avoid discoloration and more importantly, cavities and gum disease.
Start out by brushing every tooth with a dry toothbrush at the gum crevice, both on the inside and outside of the teeth. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and slide the bristles closest to the inside of the lip under the gum. Vibrate the brush, making sure the tip of the bristles rotate under the gums (like scrubbing the cuticle of a fingernail). Use about ten quick rotations of the brush per tooth, trying not to lift the brush at any point (it's been found that a person invariably lifts the brush on the same teeth time after time, and those teeth never get the right amount of cleaning). On the inside of the front teeth, hold the brush like a lollipop, parallel to the teeth, and brush with the tip, making sure the bristles slip under the gum. If you want to make sure the bristles get under the gum, bite the brush gently and you'll force the bristles up. Brush each section of your mouth for about 30 seconds.
Once you've successfully brushed your teeth for 2 minutes, clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner.To clean your tongue, simply stick out the tongue, and sweep the debris from back to front, then rinse well to wash away the residue. You can also finish off with a sugar free oral rinse or mouth wash. Remember, while you're in the process of brushing your teeth, don't brush too firmly. You can do serious harm to your teeth if you brush them too intensely.
After learning the correct procedure, brushing is simple and the best way to get a beautiful smile. All you need is a toothbrush, toothpaste, and great technique. Remember to brush twice a day and try not to eat or drink anything after your brush in the evening. Once you go to sleep, you swallow about considerably less than you do during the day, so it is harder for your mouth to stay germ-free. A thorough before-bed brushing can transform your smile and ensure that your gums stay pink and healthy, your breath fresh and your teeth white!
]]>What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum (periodontal) disease. Most typically characterized by an inflammation of the gums, gingivitis is usually caused by bacterial plaque and poor dental hygiene. Unfortunately, gingivitis is quite a common disease and many people are not even aware that they are infected. If untreated, gingivitis may develop into periodontitis, a more serious form of periodontal disease that is likely to lead to tooth loss as well.
Gingivitis Symptoms
In some cases, gingivitis may have few obvious symptoms or signs. Which is why, as previously mentioned, many may be infected with the disease without even knowing it.
Among more serious symptoms, gingivitis may cause damage to the oral tissues, ligaments and tooth sockets that support tooth structure. This is a result of plaque that remains in the mouth for a long period of time: the unremoved plaque will harden and become tartar, having a negative effect on the gums.
Causes of Gingivitis
The number one cause of gingivitis is poor dental hygiene - including appropriate at-home care and regular in-office dental checkups to maintain oral health.
Is Gingivitis Contagious?
Ultimately, gingivitis is a contagious disease caused by bacteria in the mouth and poor oral hygiene. The bacteria is present in one’s saliva and, just as cavity-causing bacteria, gingivitis can be communicable from one person to another (through kissing, sharing silverware, cups, etc.).
Pregnancy and Gingivitis
Research shows up to 70% of pregnant women become infected with gingivitis. Because pregnant women experience hormonal changes, expecting mothers should be aware of their increased risk of gingivitis infection. Pregnancy may cause a rise in the level of progesterone, a hormone which provides a likely environment for bacteria in the mouth to thrive. Expecting mothers should take proper precautions and practice an appropriate dental hygiene routine, in addition to consulting a dentist and making regular dental visits throughout the pregnancy.
Treatment and Prevention of Gingivitis
The first step in preventing gingivitis is practicing proper dental hygiene. Understanding how to brush correctly, appropriate flossing techniques and scheduling regular dentist visits for checkups are essential for everyone.
To avoid the progression of gingivitis into periodontal disease, awareness of infection and seeking early treatment is paramount. Consult your dentist if you have not had a recent exam to test for gingivitis.
Gingivitis treatments are available at the dentist office but also require at-home care.
Gingivitis treatments include:
Professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.Proper at-home hygienic care, including how and when to brush, floss and rinse, etc.
If an unsanitary dental appliance is the cause, the dentist may refer the patient to his or her orthodontist for a new appliance to replace it.
Unfortunately, recurring gingivitis is not uncommon so regular dental checkups are essential. For people who are prone to gingivitis, we recommend continual visits to the dentist office for professional teeth cleaning sessions.
The standard schedule for seeing dentists for check-ups used to be every six (6) months. Today, most dentists believe it should be “as often as necessary.” It’s difficult, certainly, to worry about seeing a dentist when there’s “nothing wrong,” but at the very least, no one can clean their own teeth perfectly, and the habit of going to the dentist regularly for exams and cleanings allows the dentist to keep track of developing problems. Even if you are certain you have no decay or gum condition, the dentist will probe your gums to make certain that periodontal disease, which can affect everyone, is not quietly developing. The dentist will also check your teeth with an explorer, or take x-rays, to find and treat potential cavities. If nothing is found, but the potential for decay or other problems exists, the dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment in the near future. Depending on the condition of your gums and teeth, they can decide how frequently you should be treated.
]]>Aesthetic (Cosmetic) Dentistry: Dental treatments to improve the physical appearance of one's teeth. Aesthetic Dentistry includes teeth whitening procedures, dental restorations (bonding/veneers), dental implants, dental reshaping and orthodontics.
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (Early Childhood Caries): Affecting children between the ages of 1 to 3 years old, the dental condition in which tooth caries are formed as a result of prolonged tooth exposure to juice, milk/formula or other sugary liquids (when children are given a bottle at bedtime filled with a liquid other than water.) The modern term for this condition is "Early Childhood Caries."
Bleaching: Teeth whitening processes in which stains and/or discolorations are removed with use of hydrogen peroxide. Bleaching can be conducted by a professional dentist through in-office procedures or by use of at-home systems.
Bonding: The attachment of dental adhesives applied to the tooth's enamel to reconstruct dental defects.
Braces: The use of dental appliances to adjust the position of the teeth or underlying bones of the teeth. The orthodontist cements brackets and wires (either stainless steel or nickel titanium alloy) to surface of the teeth. As an alternative to metal, braces are also available in the form of clear aligners (commonly referred to as "invisible braces."?)
Bridge: In dentistry, a bridge is a prosthesis cemented inside of the mouth, frequently used to replace missing teeth.
Bruxism: The unconscious habit of clenching and grinding of the teeth.
Calcium: In dentistry, calcium phosphate salts are essential minerals that strengthen tooth development by forming the hard material of the teeth.
Calculus: On the surface of teeth, this is the deposit of hardened dental plaque consisting of a mixture of organic material, calcium phosphate and carbonate. It is more commonly referred to as tartar.
Calprox®: Supersmile's proprietary form of calcium peroxide. An alternative teeth whitening ingredient to silica, Calprox® is both safe and effective. It works to dissolve surface stains on natural teeth and is especially kind to artificial tooth surfaces including bonding, veneers, laminates and dentures.
Caps (Crowns): A protective cover placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, color, strength and overall appearance. They can be either temporary or permanent and come in a variety of forms including metal, porcelain, ceramic, resin, or porcelain fused to metal.
Cavity: Also referred to as dental caries, a cavity is a destruction (lesion or hole) causing discoloration, softening or pores on the outer layer of the tooth (the enamel or dentin).
DDS: Acronym for "Doctor of Dental Surgery."
DMD: Acronym for "Doctor of Dental Medicine."
Deciduous Teeth: The initial set of teeth which begin to erupt at about 6 months of age. Also referred to as "temporary" or "baby" teeth. Care for deciduous teeth is important for the development of permanent teeth.
Demineralization: The process by which acidic saliva in the mouth erodes the teeth of useful minerals such as calcium and phosphate, which help strengthen and harden the teeth. Demineralization usually takes place not long after eating when the acid content in the saliva is high.
Dentin: The second layer of the tooth. It makes up the major portion of the tooth. Dentin is the hard, calcified tissue that covers the pulp cavity and is covered by the tooth's enamel. It is similar to bone, however dentin is harder and denser.
Dentures: Also referred to as a dental plate, dentures are artificial teeth and tissue that replace teeth which have been lost for various reasons. Dentures are removable and can be either complete or partial.
Dry Mouth: Also called xerostomia, Dry mouth occurs when there is a decrease in the flow of saliva in the mouth. Dry mouth can accelerate tooth decay and oral infections if not treated properly.
Enamel: Enamel is the first of four major layers of the tooth. It is calcified, clear and porous. Tooth enamel protects the dentin.
Endodontics: The branch of dentistry concerned with the inner parts of the tooth; the treatment, diagnosis and preventive dentistry of the tooth pulp.
Endodontist: The endodontist is a dental specialist who treats, diagnoses and prevents diseases of the nerves in the teeth. The endodontist is the dentist who performs root canals.
Extraction: Performed by dentists, the process of removing a tooth from the mouth.
Filling: The filling of a cavity or destruction in the tooth with restorative material. Dental fillings consist of composite resins or metal amalgams.
Flossing: The process of cleaning between the teeth with use of a waxed or unwaxed soft thread.
Fluoride: A natural mineral present in various foods and drinking water. Like calcium and phosphate, fluoride helps to remineralize the teeth.
Fluorosis: The condition by which the enamel of the teeth become damaged and discolored (turn brown). Fluorosis occurs as a result excessive exposure and intake of fluoride.
Gingiva: The oral gums.
Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums.
Gum Recession: The dental condition in which the teeth's roots become exposed as a result of the loss of gum tissue from its otherwise normal position.
Halitosis: The condition of having foul-scented breath.
Hygienist: A licensed professional in the field of dentistry who specializes in preventive measures including cleaning the teeth and mouth.
Kosher Toothpaste: Supersmile toothpastes have earned the Orthodox Union seal of approval as a certified Kosher product. Unlike most other toothpaste and teeth-whitening brands, Supersmile products do not contain glycerin-an animal byproduct made out of fat from certain meat (such a beef or pork, for instance). In general, non-Kosher toothpaste ingredients include about 1/3 parts glycerin of their overall chemical make-up.
Molars: The teeth located in the back of the mouth which have larger biting surfaces, adapted for grinding food. Normally, people should have 3 on each side of both the upper and lower jaw.
Oral Cancer: The condition in which cancerous cells are present in the tissues of the mouth. Poor oral hygiene and smoking are two of many probable causes of oral cancer.
Oral Surgery: Surgical procedures of the mouth. Oral surgeries can be conducted for a variety of dental purposes including the prevention of oral diseases, treatment of dental problems or aesthetic purposes.
Orthodontics: The branch of dentistry concerned with abnormalities in the structure of the teeth, jaw and face.
Orthodontist: The licensed dental professional concerned with prevention, diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities in the structure of the teeth, jaw and face.
Pedodontics: Also referred to as Pediatric Dentistry, this branch of dentistry specializes in the oral health of children.
Pedodontist: The licensed dentist specializing in the oral health of children.
Periodontal Disease: Diseases of the oral tissue that support the teeth and keep them in place (the gum; the periodontal membrane, or ligament; the bone beneath the gums, in which the teeth are embedded via the periodontal membrane.) Periodontics: The branch of dentistry concerned with tissue that supports the teeth and keeps them in place (see above).
Permanent Teeth: The second set of teeth that erupt. Also referred to as "adult" teeth.
Plaque: The sticky, thin accumulation of bacterial products from food and saliva that grows in the mouth, adhering to teeth, gums and tongue.
Preventive Dentistry: The branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention of unnecessary dental problems.
Prosthodontics: The branch of dentistry concerned with dental restoration.
Prosthodontist: The licensed dentist who specializes in the area of dental restoration.
Protein Pellicle: The thin layer of protein that forms on the tooth surface, to which plaque, bacteria, and stains adhere.
Pulp: The vascular tissue that originates in the center of the tooth beneath the enamel and dentin layer.
Remineralization: The natural process in which the minerals of the teeth are restored or replaced, strengthening the enamel.
Restorations: In dentistry, the replacement of damaged or lost dental structures.
Root Canal: The removal of the pulp of the tooth, which is either damaged or diseased, then filled and sealed. Root canals are performed by a dental professional.
Scaling: The process of removing plaque from the tooth's surface.
Sealants: Protective coating applied to teeth by a dental professional to protect against cavity-causing bacterial plaque.
Silica: A chemical abrasive found in most at-home teeth whitening systems. All Supersmile products are silica-free.
Stains: In dentistry, stains are discoloration of the teeth that occur as a result of various conditions. Tooth stains can be extrinsic or intrinsic.
Tartar: In dentistry, tartar is a yellowish deposit on the teeth. Tartar consists of acid, food particles, bacteria and saliva. Also referred to as calculus.
Teething: The process of primary tooth eruption.
Tooth Decay: The damage of tooth enamel resulting from an accumulation of bacterial plaque on the surface of the teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity of the nerves of the dentin of the teeth caused by a variety of factors including tooth decay. Teeth sensitivity may also be the result of using certain teeth whitening products. Supersmile products will not cause sensitivity in the teeth nor gums.
Tooth Whitening: The process of using at-home or in-office systems and procedures to improve the whiteness of the teeth.
Xylitol: A natural white, sweet, crystalline alcohol. Unlike sugar, it will not cause dental cavities when used as a sugar substitute or ingredient in dental health products. It is the only sweetener in Supersmile's Advanced Whitening Gum.
What's the most noticeable attribute of a face? The eyes? They may mirror the soul, but experts have shown that it is the mouth that is the face's most prominent feature. The mouth is the first focus of attention and the decisive factor when others form an opinion about how you look.
How often have you seen a person covering their mouth with a hand when they laugh, or holding their lips tightly over their teeth when smiling? Maybe you know someone who tries to hide a space between the teeth with their tongue. Why cover up a fault when you can correct it?
Most of us know that help is available; unfortunately, many of us assume that aesthetic dentistry is for the select few, those who can afford to expend time and money to improve their smiles.
But as you read on, you'll find that it's not necessarily expensive or an amenity solely for a select handful of celebrities; it's available for everyone. This new concept in dentistry, this practical way to improve your appearance, this use of the tools of the profession to enhance a person's smile and facial characteristics-we call this aesthetic dentistry.
Aesthetic dentistry can improve appearances, and the aesthetically inclined dentist works to give beauty where it was lacking or lost. The work is often painstakingly slow. The aesthetically inclined dentist spends much time on such details as carving and staining porcelain crowns, repeated try-ins of dentures and fixed bridges, bonding over teeth to reshape them and close spaces, bleaching both "live" and "dead" teeth. Aesthetic dentists use many of the materials and techniques with improvisations of their own to help create illusions. But there is no mystery to what they do, only a significant time commitment and a new, two fold approach to dentristy that combines the old (the improvement of dental health) and the new (aesthetic improvement). The rewards of aesthetic dentistry are perhaps the most dramatic in the profession. The results are there: a beautiful smile, fresh confidence, and a more youthful appearance.
]]>Abrasivity Testing of Test Dentifrice Compared with Standard Dentifrices Using Manual and Powered Toothbrushes (Westwood Research Laboratory, Inc.)
To evaluate the abrasivity of the test dentifrice when used with standard manual and powered toothbrushes; to compare the abrasivity of the test dentifrice to that of other brands.
All of the results with dentin are well below the ADA permissible limit of 250, and are in the middle to lower range of abrasivity of those on the U.S. and world markets. Using the average for all brushes, the abrasivity score of Supersmile was lower than that for Crest or Colgate Regular.
(Missouri Analytical Laboratories, Inc.)
To determine the protein pellicle removal potential of dentifrice products.
Each test solution showed a reduction of remaining protein compared to the positive control. Supersmile removed more protein than the other test products.
Supersmile Toothpaste is most effective at removing the protein pellicle to which stains adhere on the teeth, cleaning your teeth and leaving you with a whiter smile.
Whitening of Natural Dentition Using Commercially Available Dentifrices (New York University College of Dentistry, David B. Kriser Dental Center)
To demonstrate the whitening effect of a toothpaste on natural dentition.
47 patients with natural teeth brushed their teeth first with a dry brush and then twice with a test dentifrice. The products tested were Topol (15 patients), Crest (16 patients), and Supersmile (16 patients).
0 - no discernible change
1 - slight change
2 - moderate change
3 - drastic change
The score for each patient was the sum of the grades given by three evaluators.
Supersmile demonstrated a superior whitening or brightening effect on the sample population.
A one-way analysis of variance indicated a statistical difference between the groups at the.01 level.
Duncan, Scheffe, and LSD tests all indicated that Supersmile was different from the other dentifrices at the .01 level.
Supersmile inhibits plaque 10 times better than the leading plaque-removing toothpaste.
Supersmile Brightens Teeth Over 250% MORE EFFECTIVELY Than The Leading Smoker's Toothpaste.
Supersmile is 75% less abrasive than the limit set by the American Dental Association.
To Investigate the Stain Removal Efficacy of Supersmile Whitening Gum
The demonstrate the removal of food-induced dental stains.
50 patients consumed a chromogenic "meal" consisting of:
4 ounces of red grape juice (simulating red wine)
3 ounces of blueberry pie
4-6 ounces of coffee or tea
Patients then chewed 2 pieces of Supersmile Gum for 10 minutes.
After the use of Supersmile Professional Whitening Gum, the mean shade of the anterior teeth was calculated to be almost 3 Vita tabs whiter than the coloration immediately after eating. This level of de-staining, representing a major de-coloration of tooth shade, is statistically significant (blue shading). It is also readily evident to the casual observer.
From this study, it can be concluded that Supersmile Professional Whitening Gum removes food induced stains from dental surfaces. Supersmile Professional Whitening Gum's very convenient application modality, its rapid de-coloration activity, and its significant results in dental destaining make it a very practical and portable tool for oral hygiene and aesthetic maintenance.
To Investigate the Stain Removal Efficacy of Supersmile QuikeeTM
The purpose of this of this study was to examine if the Supersmile Quikee will remove food-induced dental stains and whiten teeth.
A total of 40 patients recorded their tooth shade and then ate chromogenic foods consisting of coffee, chocolate, and black berry pie. Thirty minutes after eating, tooth color was measured using the same investigators. The patients then cleaned their teeth under supervision using the Quikee.
This study concludes that an improvement of approximately 0.65 tabs over the baseline and approximately 2.83 tabs after eating the chromogenic diet was recorded. The significant improvement demonstrates that Supersmile Quikee will remove food-induced stains and improve teeth whiteness. From this study it can be concluded that
Supersmile Quikee will remove food-induced stains and will have a whitening effect upon the teeth.