Tips and Practical Advice for a White and Shiny Smile!

Our smile says a lot about our character and represents our emotions in the most eloquent manner.  Hence, such a... mirror should be kept in flawless condition.  This requires, of course, daily effort and care, since all those things that cloud our smile threaten both our looks and overall health. 

Our teeth fight a daily battle chewing the food our body needs.  And that’s why all sorts of stains and food particles appear on them, which must be removed, both for proper mouth cavity hygiene, and an irresistible look.  So, keeping our teeth in good shape is important for a lovely smile.  

What are the steps you should follow to keep them bright white and shiny? 

• We choose the correct toothpaste and toothbrush for whitening and protection

Most types of toothpaste available have fluorine as their basic component, which is the teeth’s main ally in their battle against caries and the deposits of mineral salts (widely known as dental plague). Fluorine protects the adamantine that’s valuable for the health of the teeth internally.  As for the whitening toothpastes available, keep in mind that they remove colouring matters, as they contain micro-granules and whitening agents. They can also be used on a daily basis for an even shiner smile.

Now, when it comes to the ideal toothbrush, experts warn that the advisable time for their replacement should not exceed 3-4 months for the general public.  Electric or manual, toothbrushes, due to their sensitive composition and daily contact with microbes of the mouth cavity and the bathroom (especially when left uncovered), they turn into the perfect nests for pathogenic micro-organisms. So, using the same brush for too long does more bad than good. The quality of the fibres depends on the material, the rounding of the edges and the softness of the bristles. Note that nylon bristles are considered more hygienic than natural ones. The size of the head is ideal when it does not exceed the width of two teeth, thus affording it mobility and minimising the risk of damaging adjacent teeth from poor horizontal motion. Regarding their texture, most dentists recommend a medium-to-soft option, to avoid harming the gums.

• We use mouth wash and dental floss

Dental floss is rather effective in cleaning spots and areas that cannot be reached with the toothbrush (like the gaps between the teeth and the line under the gums), where usually microbes and food particles tend to concentrate. Dental floss does not have to be longer than 30cm and must be applied with mild, back-and-forth movements. We should also keep in mind to extend its use all along the mouth cavity, and not just in a single tooth. On the other hand, equally beneficial and practical is the regular use of mouth wash, with fluorine and chlorhexidine as its main ingredients. It ensures the proper protection of the whole mouth cavity from bacteria and fights off the bad breath caused by them.

• We avoid food and habits that yellow the teeth

Our teeth turn yellow when several colouring matters contained in the food we consume deposit on them, but also when acids of certain foods corrode the enamel. Tea, chocolates, carbonated beverages, red wine, and sauces can have the same effect, especially when daily consumed. Minimising their consumption would be ideal if you want your bright white smile back, but, if it’s hard to... restrain yourself, at least make sure to brush your teeth soon after you consume them.

• We visit our dentist for cleaning and whitening 

A proficient dentist with state-of-the-art tools is by far the most competent person to assess the state of your teeth and present you with the best remedy options.  If you want a bright white and irresistible smile always in your arsenal, you must never skip your dentist appointments. Visit him at least every 6-12 months, for regular check-ups and professional cleaning.  

Until you do so, though, do not neglect your daily struggle for good dental hygiene! In Parapharmacie, you will find a great range of dental care products that will help your teeth... laugh again and draw attention with your shiny smile!