“Ouch! My ear hurts like crazy. I have been noticing my jaw popping occasionally. I hope I am not going to need another root canal. That last root canal really hurt twice. I am not sure which hurt worse: my mouth or my pocketbook. If I had a fever, I would swear I had an ear infection. I am going to the doctor and get a prescription of antibiotics. Maybe that will help.”

This patient has TMJ, temporomandibular joint syndrome. Antibiotics are only required if the patient has subsequent tooth abscess. I cannot begin to tell you how many patients I have seen who would demand antibiotics to treat this non-infectious condition. TMJ is extremely common in the migraine syndrome (explained below). The muscle tightness in the upper neck just below the mastoid process (part of skull behind the ear) also correlates well to the tightness in the temple and jaw muscle. I found it extremely rare for a patient to have TMJ and not have migraines. Usually a severe cross bite or other malformation of the mouth would be present if the patient did not have migraines.

This person falls into the migraine syndrome profile. Let me explain what I mean by the migraine syndrome. It is the outward expression of the body’s sensitivity to light, sound, smell, food, and/or stress. Some people are more sensitive than others; therefore, their reactions to different stimuli are greater. This sensitivity can be manifested in the body as migraines, sinus headaches, neck aches, palpitations, irritable bowel syndrome, motion sickness or vertigo, reactive hypoglycemia, temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), panic attacks, and/or fibromyalgia. Now that’s a mouthful! Understanding what is going on with you is very important in the healing process. ENT surgeons, dentists, physical therapists, psychologists can all play a role in treatment of TMJ. A headache specialist that understands the role of migraine syndrome in TMJ or an enlightened primary care physician can make the difference in your outcome.

J. Wes Tanner, MD, is a family practice and headache specialist who has been treating people for about 30 years. He has extensive experience in treating migraines and fibromyalgia with excellent success. In Doctor, Why Do I Feel This Way?, Dr. Tanner exposes the secrets and myths about fibromyalgia and the migraine syndrome. To find out more, go to his web site, www.migrainesyndrome.net.

J. Wes Tanner, MD, is a family practice and headache specialist who has been treating people for about 30 years. He has extensive experience in treating migraines and fibromyalgia with excellent success. In Doctor, Why Do I Feel This Way?, Dr. Tanner exposes the secrets and myths about fibromyalgia and the migraine syndrome. To find out more, go to his web site, www.migrainesyndrome.net.

I stumbled across TMJ when I needed treat a literal pain in the neck that would not go away. It seemed that the pain in my neck came from my jaws. “TMJ” refers to disorders of the jaw muscles and of the temporomandibular joint, the hinge at the side of the head that joins the lower jaw, mandible, to the temporal bone of the skull. TMJ expert John Taddey, D.D.S. states that one the most common symptoms of TMJ is a dull, aching pain around the ears which can radiate to the neck, shoulders, and back of the head. These symptoms may be coupled with tenderness of the jaw muscles and a headache.

While the causes of TMJ are many, the condition is usually the result of a collective malfunctioning of the chewing muscles, the teeth, and the temporomandibular joint. The face and jaw muscles may go into spasm or cramp and lead to tissue damage, pain and tenderness. The level of damage and pain varies.

Diaganosing TMJ can be elusive. Recognizing TMJ requires a thorough understanding of the two-inch area just in front of the ears that houses the temporomandibular joint, sinuses, glands, the middle and inner ears, throat tissues, brain tissue, muscles, ligaments, nerves blood vessels, lymphatic tissues, bones and teeth. TMJ can mask itself with a “referred pain”. This occurs when pain felt in one area of the body originated from another source. For example, you may visit your doctor with an earache and find your ear is healthy, while a decayed tooth or TMJ is the root cause of the earache.

TMJ can arise form trauma, whiplash, stress, teeth-grinding and clenching, misaligned teeth, missing or sore teeth, muscle abuse, infection, diseases of the joints such as arthritis, and cancer.

Your family dentist should be able to recognize TMJ. Depending on your condition, she may treat the TMJ herself or refer you to a physician, orthodontist, chiropractor, psychologist or oral surgeon for more specialized treatment.

For more information on identifying and treating TMJ yourself, read TMJ Self-Help Program: How to recognize a TMJ problem: What to do to relieve pain and restore health: When to seek professional help by John Taddely, D.D.S. with Constance Schrader and James Dillon.

Health author and Stanford University graduate Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include “Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne” (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work “Skinny Fat Chicks, Why we’re still not getting this dieting thing” (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com.

Health author and Stanford University graduate Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include “Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne” (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work “Skinny Fat Chicks, Why we’re still not getting this dieting thing” (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com.

There’s no doubt that a brilliant white smile adds a lot to the way you look and as you age your teeth can lose a bit of their brilliance. Stains from coffee, cigarettes and simply aging can turn your teeth several shades off from what they once were. Luckily there are many options for teeth whitening out on the market. Which one is right for you?

How White Will Your Teeth Get?

When considering teeth whitening many people want to know how white their teeth will get. The level of whiteness you can achieve varies from person to person and from teeth to teeth. In rare cases your teeth can be whitened by up to 9 shades, but it is not likely. However, even just a difference of three or four shades will certainly enhance your smile.

The goal for most people undergoing teeth whitening to reach the optimal level of whiteness, without the teeth looking fake. It is important to note that the method used to whiten your teeth will have a significant impact on your outcome. Home-based teeth whitening systems will not typically achieve the same results as in-office teeth whitening. Usually during your first consult with your dentist about teeth whitening he or she will explain to you what results you can expect for your teeth.

How Much Will It Cost?

You can whiten your teeth at home or go to the dentist and have it done professionally. The do it yourself systems cost around $40.00 and typically require that you use strips or a tray for a week or more every day. Contrary to what you might hear, they DO work but you will have to make the commitment to apply the system every day.

An office visit to the dentist just for one teeth whitening treatment could cost up in the thousand dollar range at some of the more high end offices. But many people prefer to have a professional whiten their teeth to be sure it is “done right” or if they can’t commit to using a do it yourself product every day. Depending on the type of treatment your dentist decides is best for you , you could have whiter teeth in just one visit!

Tray Whitening Systems

One common method of teeth whitening is the tray system. This method was the predecessor to today’s teeth whitening strips, but is not obsolete as many consumers still use them today. Basically a gel-like substance, made of concentrated hydrogen peroxide and water and gluten to ensure adherence to the teeth, is put in a tray that fit around the teeth of the user. The trays generally come in sizes, or in some cases can be custom fitted for your teeth by your dentist.

Teeth whitening trays generally are worn for several hours during the day, or even overnight. Most people prefer to be awake when using the tray so that they can be sure the tray doesn’t fall out, or their mouth gets too dry. In most cases the user is able to carry on normal activities without disruption. As a general rule users don’t want to venture outside of their home or car because the trays aren’t exactly attractive. They cause the lips to protrude and speech to be muddled.

Whitening Strips

The whitening strips are thin pieces of plastic coated with hydrogen peroxide or some other whitening agent. The teeth whitening agent is typically clear, so the strip itself is transparent. There are two teeth whitening strips in each treatment set, one for the top row of teeth, and one for the bottom. Each is a different size and designed to fit with the corresponding teeth. They can’t always perfectly fit the user because everyone’s teeth are different, but they are usually comfortable for most people.

The strips are easy to use, you just apply them to the front of your teeth and then fold them over to stay put. The strips are worn for 30 minutes at a time twice a day.

Side Effects Of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is fairly safe and minor side effects can include gum irritation and sensitive teeth. Your gums about the teeth can become irritated when they come in contact with the whitening gel. This will subside once you stop using the whitening product.

Tooth sensitivity is brought on by the inflamed nerve of the tooth. The teeth whitening strips use a chemical that tends to irritate the tooth’s nerve and consequently cause the teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold. This is typically temporary and does not require a dentist visit and will subside once the treatment is over.

Lee Dobbins writes for Body Care Zone where you can find out more about taking care of yourself and read more articles on teeth whitening and dental care.

Lee Dobbins writes for Body Care Zone where you can find out more about taking care of yourself and read more articles on teeth whitening and dental care.

There are many ways to achieve the white teeth of your dreams, and hundreds of products to choose from. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. The top of the line tooth whitening treatment is an in office laser whitening which will run you about $600.00 Expensive for some, but it gives guaranteed and immediate results. The cheapest method of tooth whitening is the use of whitening toothpaste. This is the cheapest, and the slowest method to obtain whiter looking teeth.

Whitening toothpastes are a very low cost and low tech way to make your teeth look whiter. With whitening toothpaste it can take up to six months of use twice a day to see what some manufacturers call the final whitening results. Whitening toothpastes do not actually increase the whiteness of the teeth, they work by removing stains from the teeth which in turn make the teeth appear whiter. A lot of people whiten their teeth initially with a in office laser whitening or with a gel tray and then use whitening toothpaste to help keep their smile white.

The success of any whitening toothpaste is directly related to how long and how often you brush your teeth. Some dental health professionals warn that the use of toothpastes in an effort to reduce staining and yellowing of teeth can cause the loss of tooth enamel due to over-brushing. Whitening toothpastes are made with chemicals and abrasives. Brushing too vigorously can lead to the loss of tooth enamel. Tooth enamel cannot be replaced. If you have sensitive teeth you may not be able to use whitening toothpaste.

Be aware that whitening toothpastes only affect the outer layer of enamel. This can cause the yellowness of the deeper layers of the teeth to become more pronounced.

Daily brushing with a regular toothpaste twice a day in concert with regular dental cleanings can help make your teeth look whiter, without fear of enamel loss. Also, rinsing your mouth out after drinking dark beverages such as coffee, tea or red wine can help prevent staining from occurring.

Before you start any whitening product you should have a thorough examination by your dentist. Make sure that you teeth and gums are healthy before you start. Always follow your dentist’s recommendations.

This article courtesy of http://www.smile-bright.net

This article courtesy of http://www.smile-bright.net

Too many people are embarrassed about their smiles, so they keep their mouths closed and sometimes don’t smile at all. But keeping your mouth closed and by not smiling, you are giving off the wrong impression about yourself: that you are unapproachable and unhappy. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. Like everyone else, you want to meet people and be happy, but you may feel ashamed of your yellow teeth.

Not any more! Want a whiter, brighter smile? It can be yours! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get that whiter smile you’ve always wanted!

There are several alternatives for the person who wants to enjoy the waiter, brighter smile:

1. Increasing in popularity is the laser whitening treatment which can be pricey and perhaps time-consuming. Check it out on the internet, if you’re interested, because it’s not always available in all areas.

2. The next alternative is to get your teeth whitened professionally at the dentist. This can be costly and time consuming, and who wants to go to the dentist anyway?

3. Another idea is to use whitening strips which can increase the lightness of your teeth by several shades. These are easily purchased at a pharmacy or drugstore and are worn up to twice a day for half an hour each time and are quite effective. Compared to professional whitening, they are also quite cost efficient!

4. Another idea is to use the whitening paint or gel. This is something you’ll paint on your teeth at night and they can effectively increase the whiteness of your teeth by several shades. This, as well, is available in your pharmacy or drugstore and is quite affordable. Also, since you’re doing it at night, it’s very, very convenient!

5. Companies that make toothpaste and toothbrushes are now offering whitening options with these products. For example, toothpaste, which has long been used for fighting Tartar and bad breath, now has additional properties of be able to lighten your teeth while toothbrushes are being built with rubber inserts among the bristles to do a better job of removing stains.

It won’t be long now before we find bubblegum that can also wait and teeth while it fresh is your breath and satisfies your sweet tooth.

Now you can have a great smile you can flash around to show off how wonderful of a person you really are. You deserve it!

Jeff Lakie is the founder of www.my-white-teeth.info and www.quick-whiteners.info websites providing information on Tooth Whitening

Jeff Lakie is the founder of www.my-white-teeth.info and www.quick-whiteners.info websites providing information on Tooth Whitening

For many years, as I brushed my teeth each morning and evening and gazed into the mirror, I wondered just how different the picture I saw would be if I plucked up the courage to have laser teeth whitening treatment. Each time the thought crossed my mind my natural fear of the dentist, and the thought of the cost involved, quickly dispelled it.

Just over a year ago, however, I was on holiday in the Far East and tooth ache forced me to seek out a dentist at the much applauded dental department of the local international hospital. While having the necessary filling, I noticed that the centre also offered laser teeth whitening and that they were currently running a special promotion which was the equivalent of about half the cost I would pay back at home. It was too good an offer to pass up and so I made an appointment for later that week.

The treatment was in two parts. On my first appointment, the procedure was explained to me and it was made clear that the results varied considerably from individual to individual. In my case, although my teeth were in very good condition for my age, years of cigarette smoking had left their mark and so, although a considerable improvement should be seen, my teeth were never again going to match the gleaming white teeth seen in the tooth whitening advertisements.

With the explanation of the procedure out of the way, my first appointment concluded with a clean and polish. Now whether this was typical of laser teeth whitening treatments, or was simply the standard at this particular dental centre, I don’t know, but this particular clean and polish was the most thorough I have ever experienced and took no less than one hour and twenty minutes. That said, it was not a painful process, but was somewhat uncomfortable and not something I would like to go through too often.

Five days later I returned for the laser teeth whitening procedure itself.

After fitting a large plastic guard into my mouth and packing the area around my gums with gauze, a protective gel was applied to my gums and this was set using a light. This process was again somewhat uncomfortable and setting the gel generated quite a bit of heat which was a little worrying, but overall things seemed to be proceeding smoothly.

Next, a whitening gel was applied to my teeth and then the laser light process started. For this a small hand-held laser light instrument was used and my teeth were divided into four sections (upper right, upper left, lower right and lower left) with the light being applied for about one and a half minutes to each section in turn. This process was repeated four times and then the whitening gel was rinsed off and fresh gel applied before a second round of four further light exposures.

Up until this point the procedure had been painless and seemed simple enough. However, as the second set of light exposures started, I began to experience shooting pains in a number of my teeth. At first these were reasonably mild, but the intensity soon increased and, after just two further light treatments, I was forced to call a halt to the proceedings.

This sensitivity is apparently quite normal and, although it varies considerably from person to person, many patients fail to run the full course of eight light exposures. What is also common, and which I hadn’t realized until after the treatment, was that the whitening process started by the laser light exposure continues for several days after the treatment, as do the shooting pains!

So what were the final results like and was it worth having the treatment?

Well, I certainly noticed a considerable difference in the appearance of my teeth and even now, a year after the treatment, my teeth are still much whiter and brighter than before. This said, they are slowly beginning to discolor again and I would probably need to repeat the treatment again in about another year or eighteen months to maintain a white, bright smile. So, would I go through the treatment again?

Yes, without doubt. I am certainly no fan of the dentist, but the difference that this particular treatment has made to my life is significant and I will not hesitate to return for further treatment when the time comes.

If you would like to learn more about tooth whitening treatments then please visit http://toothwhiteningsystems.info for more information about laser teeth whitening

If you would like to learn more about tooth whitening treatments then please visit http://toothwhiteningsystems.info for more information about laser teeth whitening

Overview There are various methods of tooth whitening. These methods often result in success because they all use hydrogen peroxide to bleach the teeth. The peroxide lightens the the teeth from its previous shade.

Who Should Do It? Tooth whitening is available to everyone. There are both over-the-counter methods as well as professional whitening available through dentists. Whitening is most likely to be successful for minor stains and yellowing, such as discoloring from things such as coffee, dark-colored soda and smoking. Whitening is rarely covered by insurance because it is purely aesthetic in purpose. It is up to the individual to decide if this process is worth the time and money spent on appearance.

How Often Should You Do It? The effects of tooth whitening, depending on the method used, can last anywhere from a few months to one to three years. More official methods, such as professional whitening, are more likely to last for a few years. The informal methods, such as whitening strips and paint-on whiteners, do not have as permanent of effects. After a treatment is completed, it is best to wait for at least three months before beginning a new treatment. Continuous whitening attempts can actually damage the teeth as the peroxide strips the teeth of their enamel.

Methods There are four common methods of tooth whitening, and each has their own advantages and disadvantages. These include:

1. Professional whitening. Done by a dentist, it can usually be done in one to three appointments. This method is more expensive because dentists charge separately for the bottom set of teeth and the top set of teeth. However, it is more convenient because it does not require a large time and effort commitment on the patients’ end. This method’s effects also last the longest.

2. Whitening strips. These strips are available over the counter in drugstores and grocery stores. The strips are put on the teeth twice a day for half an hour each time. They work by bleaching the teeth. It is recommended to continue use for two weeks for noticeable results.

3. Paint-on whiteners. Like the strips, this method has to be done regularly for two weeks twice a day and must be left on for half an hour each time. This method is trickier because the whitener may rub off if it has not completely dried before the mouth is closed.

4. Whitening trays. These can be worn for up to several hours a day, and continuously keep the whitening gel on the teeth. This is a very successful method, but not used as much as the others because it tends to interfere with daily life. The trays are not noticeable to everyone, but may cause speech difficulties. All of the methods of tooth whitening have similar side effects. Most common are sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages as well as irritation of the gums. Less common are sore throats, headaches and tooth pain.

Success Rates All methods of tooth whitening lighten the teeth by at least a shade. Most people who have been surveyed are satisfied with the products, and all have noticed at least a small difference in the color of their teeth. The main difference noted between customers was the duration of time for which they felt satisfied. Most remained content for over a year and then wanted another treatment; however, many people acknowledged that their teeth had still not returned to their pre-treatment state after seven years.

For more information, please visit eKnowItAll. www.eKnowItAll.com specializes in Health and Fitness related information and provides free information on 100s of topics. Stop by to learn more!

For more information, please visit eKnowItAll. www.eKnowItAll.com specializes in Health and Fitness related information and provides free information on 100s of topics. Stop by to learn more!

So you are looking in the mirror this morning and what did you see?? Was it white bright beautiful teeth, or like the best part of the population were they looking a little dull?

Like most things in life teeth gradually fade to yellow in color. If you are an avid coffee, tea or red wine drinker then this will accelerate the process and may also stain your teeth.

It seems that almost every cosmetic company has tried to monopolize this industry with everything from whitening toothpaste to whitening strips. But there are only really two main options.

Take-home whitening systems using trays and whitening gel or in-office, for immediate whitening results using a light activated gel to brighten teeth.

How are the procedures used?

Take Home whitening kits

Take-home whitening has become wildly popular in recent times due to its flexibility and lower cost to in-house teeth whitening. The trade off is that it takes slightly longer to achieve the desired results (anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks)

This is accomplished by using a custom-made tray that is then layered with a prescription whitening gel 30mins to several hours at a time (dependent on how sensitive your teeth are).

Your dentist will make an appointment with you to take a custom impression which will then be used as a mold to make custom trays.

Once the whitening trays are ready you will have another appointment with your dentist where he will test them for a proper fit. Also the dentist will show the patient how to use the trays in conjunction with the whitening gel.

The whitening trays are quite comfortable to where and can easily be placed in before bedtime and taken out in the morning.

Usually you will also be given a tooth mouse which you apply after using the trays to help alleviate sensitive teeth that some people get when using the gels.

In-Office Whitening.

There are several in-office whitening systems on the market but for the scope of this article we will only discuss Zoom Tooth Whitening

The Zoom! Whitening Procedure

The Zoom! Whitening procedure is simple and painless. It begins with a short preparation to isolate your lips and gums. The Zoom! Clinician then applies the proprietary Zoom! Whitening Gel, this is activated by a specially designed light. Teeth typically become at least six to ten shades whiter, sometimes more. A five-minute fluoride treatment competes the procedure. You’ll be amazed with the results. In most cases, teeth get even whiter the first few days after the procedure.

How The Zoom! Works

The Zoom! Light activated gel was developed after years of research by Discus Dental, the leaders in professional take-home tooth whitening. The gel is a scientifically formulated, pH balanced Hydrogen Peroxide that, when activated by the Zoom! Light, gently penetrates the teeth to remove deep stains and discoloration. With proper care and an occasional touch-up at home, your whiter smile will sparkle for years.

Who is eligible for tooth whitening?

Well that is just a matter of preference really, anyone who would like to whiten their teeth by up to ten shades. It is very common among wedding parties for nice white bright wedding photos. But it really does appeal to everyone.

Cost

The cost can vary from place to place but for take-home whitening this can be around $450 and in-house whitening using zoom can range from $500 - $1000 depending.

All in all there are many different ways to obtain that beautiful whiter smile but if you want to get the best value for your money visit your local dentist and ask about it

Marc Lindsay
Zoom Teeth Whitening
Providing information and awareness on zoom tooth whitening and teeth whitening procedures. For more information and other great articles on other dental problems please visit our site www.toothwhiteningaustralia.com.au

Marc Lindsay
Zoom Teeth Whitening
Providing information and awareness on zoom tooth whitening and teeth whitening procedures. For more information and other great articles on other dental problems please visit our site www.toothwhiteningaustralia.com.au

So you are looking in the mirror this morning and what did you see?? Was it white bright beautiful teeth, or like the best part of the population were they looking a little dull?

Like most things in life teeth gradually fade to yellow in color. If you are an avid coffee, tea or red wine drinker then this will accelerate the process and may also stain your teeth.

It seems that almost every cosmetic company has tried to monopolize this industry with everything from whitening toothpaste to whitening strips. But there are only really two main options.

Take-home whitening systems using trays and whitening gel or in-office, for immediate whitening results using a light activated gel to brighten teeth.

How are the procedures used?

Take Home whitening kits

Take-home whitening has become wildly popular in recent times due to its flexibility and lower cost to in-house teeth whitening. The trade off is that it takes slightly longer to achieve the desired results (anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks)

This is accomplished by using a custom-made tray that is then layered with a prescription whitening gel 30mins to several hours at a time (dependent on how sensitive your teeth are).

Your dentist will make an appointment with you to take a custom impression which will then be used as a mold to make custom trays.

Once the whitening trays are ready you will have another appointment with your dentist where he will test them for a proper fit. Also the dentist will show the patient how to use the trays in conjunction with the whitening gel.

The whitening trays are quite comfortable to wear and can easily be placed in before bedtime and taken out in the morning.

Usually you will also be given a tooth mouse which you apply after using the trays to help alleviate sensitive teeth that some people get when using the gels.

In-Office Whitening.

There are several in-office whitening systems on the market but for the scope of this article we will only discuss Zoom Tooth Whitening

The Zoom! Whitening Procedure

The Zoom! Whitening procedure is simple and painless. It begins with a short preparation to isolate your lips and gums. The Zoom! Clinician then applies the proprietary Zoom! Whitening Gel, this is activated by a specially designed light. Teeth typically become at least six to ten shades whiter, sometimes more. A five-minute fluoride treatment competes the procedure. You’ll be amazed with the results. In most cases, teeth get even whiter the first few days after the procedure.

How The Zoom! Works

The Zoom! Light activated gel was developed after years of research by Discus Dental, the leaders in professional take-home tooth whitening. The gel is a scientifically formulated, pH balanced Hydrogen Peroxide that, when activated by the Zoom! Light, gently penetrates the teeth to remove deep stains and discoloration. With proper care and an occasional touch-up at home, your whiter smile will sparkle for years.

Who is eligible for tooth whitening?

Well that is just a matter of preference really, anyone who would like to whiten their teeth by up to ten shades. It is very common among wedding parties for nice white bright wedding photos. But it really does appeal to everyone.

Cost

The cost can vary from place to place but for take-home whitening this can be around $450 and in-house whitening using zoom can range from $500 - $1000 depending on the procedure used.

There are many different ways to obtain that beautiful whiter smile but if you want to get the best value for your money visit your local dentist and ask about it.

Dr Mark Levi is a well known dentist throughout Australia. To learn more about
Zoom Teeth Whitening
please visit his site
Melbourne Zoom teeth whitening

Dr Mark Levi is a well known dentist throughout Australia. To learn more about
Zoom Teeth Whitening
please visit his site
Melbourne Zoom teeth whitening

Begin with a healthy diet. Avoid snacking between meals. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal. If you must snack, make them healthy snacks Instead of snacking on junk food, try chewing on fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the crunchy foods. Apples, pears, celery and carrots are good suggestions. They will aid in enzyme production and the natural chewing of the crunchy foods will stimulate the gums.

Drink plenty of water. Keep your mouth moist and avoid dry mouth. Remember that dry mouth is a harbinger of dental disease. We also need that water to stimulate the production of saliva.

Avoid drinking soda pop. Americans consume gallons of soda pop a day. Most is loaded with sugar which obviously leads to dental disease and discolored teeth. Don’t be fooled by a “diet soda” label. Even they have huge amounts of acids that are deadly to the enamel on your teeth.

And, if you thought that just sodas are the culprit, think again. A recent study claims that all those popular sports drinks we buy may not be such a good idea after all. They may re-hydrate the body, but they can cause irreversible damage to the dental enamel.

The study reports that fitness water, sports drinks, energy drinks and other non-cola beverages increase the risk of damage by anywhere from 3 to 11 times!

It should be mentioned that the findings are indicative of long term use. However, it appears that these drinks may not necessarily beneficial as a substitute for plain old-fashioned fresh water!

Bleaching. This process involves the application of a rubber shield or a gel to your gums before work commences. This is necessary in order to prevent harm to the soft tissue. Bleaching material is then applied, sometimes using a laser light to enhance the procedure. The process may require several visits to the dental office.

Kits for bleaching are available for home use and you might discuss choose to discuss that possibility with your dentist. The actual bleaching agent is carbamide peroxide solution. It usually comes as a gel and placed in a mouthguard. The frequency and length of treatment will vary from person to person depending on the amount and intensity of whitening you desire. This should be discussed with your dentist before proceeding.

Occasionally there is some soft tissue irritation. If you experience any side effects from using the agent, contact the dentist immediately.

Teeth whitening strips. Teeth whitening strips are simply cool! These are probably the most convenient advancement in dental care in decades taking the concept of tooth bleaching to an entire new level of speed and convenience.

The whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide which is embedded in transparent material that fits over the teeth. Almost totally undetectable when worn, the peroxide goes to work as soon as they are activated by the moisture in your mouth. (Another good reason to avoid dry mouth!)

There are several brand names on the market and all work pretty much the same. They are applied over the teeth and worn for 30 minutes twice a day for 21 days, or you may select the type that can be worn overnight whitening the teeth while you are sleeping.

How long the effects last will vary depending on diet and lifestyle. Your teeth will stain again, but you can lengthen the time between incidences by avoiding tobacco, tea, red wine, colored juices, curry, soy and soft drinks. If you are on well water, you might want to have the water tested. High concentrations of minerals in your water will cause staining of your teeth. Or, you may just opt for bottled water. The results from the teeth whitening strips are absolutely incredible and you would do well to give them a try.

Anthony Stai owns and operates the #4 (Google) site for As Seen On TV products. Check out this page for your best price on the New White Light Tooth Whitening System - http://www.seenontv4you.com/esabscissr-1.html

Anthony Stai owns and operates the #4 (Google) site for As Seen On TV products. Check out this page for your best price on the New White Light Tooth Whitening System - http://www.seenontv4you.com/esabscissr-1.html