Sensitivity & Whitening

A dazzling smile is something most of us want. After all our smile is part of the first impression we present to people. A beautiful smile can improve self esteem and create good feelings in those we bestow are smile on. Getting your brilliant smile it's whitest can be easy. 

"Who is a candidate for whitening? Well, almost anyone who has their natural teeth can whiten," says Dr. Judith Ko from Hemet. "And there are a variety of products that can help."

Over the counter whitening products abound. They generally provide a small amount of the ingredient necessary to whiten your teeth. For years dentists have provided an alternative - whitening trays. These are taken home and used periodically has needed. Finally there is the whitening that is done in the dental office. "When whitening under the supervision of a dentist, you are able to receive a higher concentration of the active ingredient. This allows us to provide patients with a white smile many shades lighter than when they first began treatment," Adds Dr. Ko. 

The down side? Some patients complain about sensitivity following whitening. If you are one of those who experiences sensitivity here are some ideas for what may help:

1. Reduce the amount of product you are using at one time.

2. Reduce the amount of time you spend at home with your trays in your mouth.

3. Use Fluoride regularly and brush on your teeth, or use a toothpaste especially designed for sensitivity.

4. Limit your intake of cold drinks and liquids.

5. Speak to your dentist and let her know that you are having discomfort, many times she may have an alternate solution.

This year smile and be proud of your pearly whites.

Naturally Whiter Teeth

For most, our smile is what creates the first impression others have of us. Having a bright and white smile  can make all the difference. Some ideas for keeping your smile naturally whiter.

1. Brush and floss. It sounds simple - and it is. Brushing and flossing after eating or drinking will help keep your smile healthy and also whiter. Which brush is the best to use? The one you will use for at least 2 minutes each time you brush. How about floss? Also the one you will use. Not all foods stain, but by brushing and flossing you can keep the ones that do from damaging your pearly whites.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda is a natural whitener that has been used for years. Mix the two so that you create a fluid that is very thin and runny. Any grit and you may damage the enamel of your teeth. Apply to your teeth with your brush.

3. Strawberries. The latest craze has been to use strawberries to whiten your teeth. To do this, mash up 4-5 strawberries and apply to your teeth. After, rinse well.

You can find more ideas here. For some these ideas are all that are needed to get your smile back to its brightest. For others, a jumpstart may be needed. "While over the counter whitening strips are one way to lighten your smile, to really enhance your smile you may want to consider custom trays that conform to your individual smile," says Dr. Judith Ko. "Bright is beautiful, especially when it's a smile!"