Teeth whitening is one of the most sought-after dental cosmetic treatments by patients. The treatment is designed to improve your smile by correcting the discoloration of teeth as a result of food and drink, tobacco use, wear, or trauma, resulting in a brighter, more sparkling appearance.

Teeth Whitening Options

There are several teeth whitening options now available for patients to improve the shine of their smile. One of the teeth whitening options that patients choose first and foremost are over-the-counter teeth whitening products or whitening toothpaste. However, many patients find that these over-the-counter products are not highly effective. For that reason, the preferred method for teeth whitening treatment is through the dentist’s office, where it can be done professionally. These treatments use stronger agents that are often more effective in comparison to store-bought products and have a more lasting result. The dentist can even provide you with a professional teeth whitening kit that you can continue to use within the comforts of your home.

DIY Teeth Whitening

While professional whitening from the dentist is often the best solution for correcting tooth discoloration, there are other teeth whitening methods that can be done at home which can be used to help touch-up a recently brightened smile. This is especially useful if you have recently eaten foods or drinks that can easily cause discoloration to your teeth.Try one of the following popular DIY teeth whitening solutions to brighten up your smile:

• Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste – Simply mix a small amount of the two ingredients to make a paste. Apply to your toothbrush and brush your teeth as normal. Keep in mind that since these two ingredients can be abrasive, only use this solution for a few days at a time. Wait a few months before reapplying the solution.
• Banana Rub – A more natural approach to tooth whitening is by using a banana peel; the minerals in bananas can help promote healthy whitening effects! After you have brushed and flossed, peel a ripe banana and use the inside of the peel to rub on your teeth for two minutes. Rinse afterward.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Another, less-tasty—but effective—solution for teeth whitening is a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Mix the solution with a natural toothpaste and brush your teeth as usual.

Try out the above DIY teeth whitening solutions for an even brighter smile! You are also welcome to book an appointment with us for a professional teeth whitening treatment to maximize your smile’s sparkle.

Dental implants have become a very effective way to replace any of your missing teeth that have been lost due to injury, decay, or disease. Essentially, dental implants are small metalposts—usually made of titanium—that are surgically inserted into the upper or lower jaw, where they serve as are placement for the natural tooth’s root, and an anchor for artificial, replacement teeth.

Dental Implant Process

After the dental implant has been placed, there is a healing period that takes place in which the dental implant bonds with the jawbone while the gums heal. A temporary crown will be placed on the site to protect it as it heals while allowing you to continue to speak and eat normally. During a secondary procedure, the dentist will attach a special, customized dental crown over the dental implant that matches the shade and shape of your natural teeth, allowing it to blend in with the rest of your smile. If more than one tooth is being replaced, a customized bridge or set of dentures may be created to fit your mouth and dental implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are now a popular cosmetic solution for missing teeth for many reasons besides drastically improving your smile and teeth function. For one, dental implants are a more permanent solution that can replace natural teeth compared to other cosmetic options. Because dental implants are placed into the jaw, they have the ability to bond with your existing bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a more stable foundation for a replacement tooth. In addition, dental implants eliminate the need for often uncomfortable, removable appliances such as bridges or dentures.

If you’re interested in improving your smile with dental implants, give our Town Square Dental office a call for a consultation today!

The New Year is the best time to start practicing new lifestyle changes and habits to better your overall well-being and livelihood. Many of these lifestyle changes usually relate to dieting, exercising, or spending less. However, there are plenty of dental resolutions to make, too! Here are some tips that will help you achieve a healthier smile in the new year:

Dental Care

• Brush at least twice a day for two full minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss at least once a day. Flossing allows you to reach and clean the spaces in-between teeth that your toothbrush is unable to reach.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or earlier if you start to notice fraying or after you’ve recovered from being sick. This will ensure your toothbrush is always working effectively.

Healthy Dieting

• Choose sugar-free gum over regular gum. If you chew sugar-free gum after a meal, it can actually help remove small food particles that are lingering. Gum chewing also helps your mouth better regulate saliva, which is a natural way for your mouth to clean itself of food particles.
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals; foods like fruits and vegetables promote healthier teeth.
• Avoid foods and drinks high in sugars such as sodas and candies. The sugar can attract plaque, which can cause tooth decay.
• Drink more water; it contains fluoride, which is a natural mineral that helps strengthen your tooth enamel.

Visiting the Dentist

Finally, make sure that you visit our office for a routine dental exam and cleaning at least every 6 months. We will be able to examine your mouth for any signs of potential dental problems and also thoroughly clean your mouth of lingering plaque and tartar, which can also result in the reduction of bad breath.