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Buzz Feed
7 days ago
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Dentists Are Sharing All The Things They Can Tell About A Patient Just By Looking Inside Their Mouth And The Responses Are Surprising
When you go to the dentist, you're likely focused on matters like cavities and gum health. But dental experts can detect a lot more from your exam. 'A lot about someone's overall health can be observed just by looking in their mouth,' Dr. Kami Hoss, a dentist and author of If Your Mouth Could Talk, told HuffPost. 'In fact, over 100 systemic conditions and many medications can have oral manifestations. This means that what happens in the mouth can often be a window into broader health issues, helping to identify problems before they escalate.' Because the mouth is considered the 'gateway' to the body, it can also be the origin of problems in many different bodily systems. The mouth's microbes 'can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums or open root canals and travel to other parts of the body, causing infections or inflammation,' Hoss noted. That's why routine dental checkups are so important. 'A comprehensive oral examination can provide valuable insights into a person's overall health and lifestyle habits, helping dental professionals identify potential issues and provide appropriate care and recommendations,' said cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael J. Wei. So what exactly can a dentist infer about you from the state of your mouth? We asked some professionals to share what they've seen. If You Floss Regularly... Or Rarely 'Unfortunately, dentists can't be fooled into thinking you floss regularly if you floss just right before your visit,' said Dr. Erin Fraundorf, an orthodontist and founder of BOCA Orthodontic + Whitening Studio. 'Gum tissue that is not flossed regularly looks red, inflamed and may bleed.' She noted that healthy gums are pink and smooth with a 'knife-edge' instead of puffy. 'As soon as your dentist sees your mouth and the color and texture of your gums, they can tell you have gum disease,' Fraundorf said. 'Erosion and decay on teeth can reveal a lot about someone's diet, with high consumption of sugary foods and beverages typically leading to cavities, while acidic foods and drinks, like citrus and soda, can cause enamel erosion,' said cosmetic dentist Dr. Kevin Sands. Highly acidic and sugary foods and drinks can also contribute to gum disease. 'If you are a big tea or coffee drinker, you will more likely have dark stains,' Fraundorf added. People with diabetes often have inflamed gums. 'Imbalances in sugar may also result in a rapid change in the health of your gums, showing up as increased swelling, bleeding and sensitivity,' Fraundorf said. 'Diabetic patients have a higher prevalence of gum disease.' Additionally, 'fruity' breath can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes, so patients should seek medical attention if they experience this phenomenon. 'Without glancing at your nails, a dentist may be able to detect if you bite your nails ― or bite on other items, like pen caps or bottle caps,' Fraundorf said, noting that the stress on your teeth can cause chipping and other wear and tear. Dentists can also tell if you suck your thumb or did a lot in the past (beyond early childhood). 'Thumb-sucking may significantly alter not only a patient's teeth but their jaws,' Fraundorf explained. 'These signs include protruding upper front teeth with spacing, tucked back lower front teeth with crowding, a narrow upper jaw and an anterior open bite ― a lack of vertical overlap between the upper and lower front teeth.' Similarly, tongue thrust can result in an anterior open bite, but generally both the upper and lower teeth will have protrusion and spacing, she added. 'Deficiencies in essential nutrients can impact the health of the teeth and gums,' Wei said. Dry mouth, sores and bleeding gums are common manifestations, as well as changes in the tongue. 'Being deficient in vitamins and minerals may result in many oral conditions, like increased infections, burning tongue syndrome, sore tongue, cracked lips, tissue sloughing, delayed healing, bone infections, and gums that bleed easily,' Fraundorf said. 'When patients are deficient in iron, their gum tissues can lose some of the red hues and turn pale pink or even white. Light pink, pale gums can be a sign of anemia.' If You're Right- Or Left-Handed 'It's pretty wild, but we can often tell if you're left- or right-handed ― or at least we can tell if you brush with your right or left hand,' Fraundorf said. Right-handed patients typically don't brush their upper right teeth as well as they do their left side. The reverse is true for lefties. 'This leaves the gums slightly more puffy and red in addition to more plaque retention on these teeth,' Fraundorf explained. Dentists can also see the effects of disordered eating in their patients. 'Patients with eating disorders, specifically bulimia, will typically show enamel erosion or breakdown of enamel,' Fraundorf said. 'Specifically, we see erosion almost exclusively on the tongue side of your teeth from the stomach acid that comes up into the oral cavity.' If You Have A Gastrointestinal Issue Instead of disordered eating, this kind of erosion might also indicate a GI problem. 'Persistent bad breath might indicate gastrointestinal issues such as GERD, where stomach acid damages teeth and soft tissues,' Hoss said. 'The mouth can also reveal early signs of certain gastrointestinal diseases. Crohn's disease can cause swelling of the gums and mouth ulcers before any intestinal symptoms appear. Oral manifestations like these can be critical for early diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions.' If You're Exhibiting Signs Of Certain Cancers 'The mouth can also reveal early signs of certain cancers,' Hoss said. 'For instance, signs of leukemia may present as gum overgrowth and bleeding. Oral manifestations like these can be critical for early diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions.' Oral cancer can also manifest in the mouth with visible oral lesions or growths. 'Signs of oral cancer include unexplained bleeding in the mouth, patches (red, white or spotted), changes in your bite, or areas in the mouth that are eroded, lumpy or swollen,' Fraundorf said. 'The patient should then visit an oral surgeon for a consultation and biopsy of any suspicious tissue.' If You're Pregnant 'Some women may develop a deep red lump on their gums called a pregnancy tumor or pyogenic granuloma ― a totally benign tumor that will resolve once pregnancy is over,' Fraundorf said. She noted that pregnancy also commonly leads to the development of gingivitis due to increased progesterone, which facilitates the growth of bacteria. If You Have An Autoimmune Disease 'Dentists are the first line of defense in detecting system diseases and nutrition deficiencies because some of these diseases and deficiencies have oral manifestations,' said Dr. Jarrett L. Manning, founder of JLM Dental Studio. 'This means the disease process may present as abnormal mouth lesions that dentists are trained to detect.' While dentists check for gum health, tooth conditions and overall mouth hygiene, Manning emphasized that any dental checkups are also important because 'any lesion, sore, or patch in the mouth can tell another story and give us insight to a deeper issue.' The list of potential deeper issues includes various autoimmune diseases and other inflammatory conditions. 'Red spots and sores may be signs of lupus and Crohn's disease, and white spots in the mouth may be linked to lichen planus,' Fraundorf said. 'These spots may be tender or painful and may lead to mouth ulcers.' 'Bad 'fishy' breath and chronic dry mouth may be signs of kidney problems,' Fraundorf said. She noted that fishy breath may also indicate liver failure. Your dental appointment might also lead to the discovery of bone issues. 'A dental examination with X-rays can reveal bone loss and may lead to an early diagnosis of osteoporosis ― a disease of the bones which results in bone loss and an increase in brittleness,' Fraundorf said. 'Clenching or grinding of teeth, also known as bruxism, can be a sign of stress or anxiety, which can have detrimental effects on oral health,' Fraundorf said. Dentists can spot this sort of excess wear on the biting surfaces of teeth. 'Teeth grinding and redness of gum tissue and the throat may also be signs of sleep apnea ― a serious condition which limits the amount of oxygen a person gets during sleep,' Fraundorf added. If You Have HIV 'You can see if someone has HIV by identifying specific lesions called Kaposi's sarcoma that are common in uncontrolled HIV cases and have a distinct visual appearance,' said Dr. Ilona Casellini, founder of Swiss Quality Smile. People with HIV may also experience chronic dry mouth, canker sores and hairy leukoplakia, which presents as white patches on the tongue. 'Oral yeast infections can be a symptom of HIV in young patients who seem to otherwise present as healthy,' Fraundorf noted. 'Lifestyle choices leave distinct signs in the mouth too,' Sands said. 'Smoking or using tobacco products can cause stained teeth, gum disease, and a higher risk of oral cancers.' Drug use can also have a noticeable impact on the teeth and other parts of the mouth. Maria Korneeva / Getty Images 'Alcoholics often have inflamed gums and breath that smells of alcohol,' Casellini noted. Alcohol tends to dry out the mouth, making people with drinking issues more susceptible to cavities. 'The presence of plaque, tartar, and gum inflammation often indicates a person's oral hygiene routine, suggesting inconsistent or insufficient oral care if these issues are present,' Sands said. He emphasized that maintaining oral health is crucial not just for a beautiful smile but also for overall well-being. Awareness and proactive care can significantly impact someone's quality of life. Examining the mouth might also reveal signs of mental impairment or decline, particularly for older patients. 'Patients with cognitive disorders such as dementia or Alzheimer's often exhibit poor oral hygiene,' Casellini noted. 'They might forget to brush or have lost manual dexterity.' HuffPost.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Here's the best way to whiten your teeth at home, according to dentists
While many Americans pine for toothpaste-commercial-white teeth as much as we do symmetrical features or a thick head of hair, the desire for a brighter smile isn't just a matter of vanity. Research suggests that our dental health is actually directly tied to our mental health and, according to a slew of studies, yellowing, dullness and stains (along with crookedness and decay) can damage our self-esteem and, in the process, negatively impact the quality of our lives. Luckily, there's a solution for our dental woe. While in-office teeth whitening performed by a professional is by far the fastest path to a glowing grin, recent advancements in whitening technology have wrought an array of effective, affordable and easily accessible at-home treatments. You just need to know which one is right for you. "When it comes to over-the-counter teeth-whitening products, the most effective options typically contain peroxide-based bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients are able to penetrate the tooth enamel to remove stains and discoloration," says New York City cosmetic dentist Dr. Mike Wei. "At-home teeth whitening kits are generally recommended for individuals with mild to moderate teeth staining or discoloration. Good candidates for at-home teeth whitening typically have healthy teeth and gums without any underlying dental issues that may require professional intervention." Wei explains that the options for at-home teeth brightening are myriad — including whitening toothpastes, strips, trays and pens — and the best one for you really depends on your lifestyle and preferences (toothpastes and strips take less time and, often, money; whereas trays and pens can be more potent and effective). "There are a very wide variety of products and brands available with varying concentrations of bleaching agents," explains Dr. Erin Fraundorf, orthodontist and founder of Boca Orthodontic + Whitening Studio. However, Fraundorf warns not all over-the-counter (OTC) whiteners are created equal: "Unlike the whitening products utilized by a dentist, OTC products have a much lower concentration of active whitening ingredient. This means that it will take significantly longer for your teeth to whiten and they may have minimal or decreased efficacy against deep stains." Adds Wei, "Ultimately, the effectiveness of an over-the-counter teeth whitener varies depending on individual factors such as the severity of staining, compliance with product instructions, and personal oral hygiene habits." Last, if you experience any pain, sensitivity, or other issues while using an at-home whitening product, stop and consult a dentist. When selecting an at-home whitening product, both Wei and Fraundorf shared a number of the key factors to consider, including: Active Ingredients: Look for products containing proven whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are responsible for the chemical reaction that breaks down stains. Concentration: Always check out the concentration of the active ingredient. Lower concentrations are gentler on teeth and have longer wear time (ie: overnight), while higher concentrations work faster (ie: 30 minute wear time). ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). This ensures they meet safety and efficacy standards. Method of use: There are a variety of options. Choose a style that fits your lifestyle, whether it's strips, trays or pens. Sensitivity considerations: If you have sensitive teeth, opt for products designed specifically for sensitive users or those that include desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate. Reputable brand: Stick with trusted brands that are known for quality dental care products. Experts also emphasize that it's always best to consult your dentist first for personalized recommendations. They can help you choose the right product and ensure you don't accidentally cause damage to your teeth or gums. "Consistency is key when it comes to achieving the best results with teeth whitening," says Fraundorf. Here are her additional tips to enhance your whitening efforts: Follow instructions: Whether using strips, trays, or gels, make sure to follow the product's instructions exactly to avoid overuse, which can lead to significant sensitivity or damage. Brush before whitening: Clean teeth before applying whitening products to remove plaque and ensure better contact with the enamel. Avoid staining food & drinks: After whitening, try to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods (like berries, ketchup, turmeric) for at least 24 hours to prevent new stains from forming. Use a desensitizing toothpaste: Toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce the discomfort caused by whitening agents. Protect your gums: Use caution and be conservative with whitening products; avoid using excess amounts that will seep over to your gums, causing irritation. Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent staining and keep your teeth clean. Touch up regularly: Periodically use whitening products to maintain results. But don't overdo it; excessive use of these products can damage your enamel. Realistic expectations: "Understand that at-home whitening products may not produce the same dramatic results as professional whitening treatments. Manage your expectations and be patient with the whitening process," says Wei. Also important, says Fraundorf: "Patients with any restorative work must be aware that any artificial tooth structure (i.e., crowns, veneers, composite) will not whiten. Plus, any spots on the enamel or intrinsic deep stains [i.e., from medications] will not go away with teeth whitening." Mostly, yes! However: "Various oral conditions will lend to some patients being less ideal candidates for at-home whitening [via over the counter and professional-grade-strength products]," says Fraundorf. "These include gingival (gum tissue) recession, wear facets (from teeth grinding), chips or cracks in the teeth, plural necrosis (tooth with a dead nerve), deep medication-caused staining, periodontal disease or a history of sensitivity." Additionally, she says, patients who are pregnant, under the age of 12 or have untreated dental issues (i.e., cavities that have not been restored) should avoid any sort of teeth whitening. In terms of general safety, keep in mind that the sole current formal certification of teeth-whitening products is the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance. While some products carry this seal, not all do. "Some products without [the seal] are still fine to use, but there is no way for the general consumer to know how to decipher safety and efficacy of a product," says Fraundorf. When in doubt, experts say, choose products carrying the ADA seal. To safely whiten your teeth at home, follow product instructions and use professional-grade, ADA-approved products. Avoid overuse, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, maintain good oral hygiene and take breaks between treatments. Above all, always get personalized advice from your dentist. "You only get one set of permanent teeth, so it's important to take good care of them!" Fraundorf says. Echoes Wei: "Before starting any at-home whitening regimen, it's a good idea to consult with your dentist. They can assess your oral health and recommend the best whitening product for your specific needs."
Yahoo
16-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
8 foods that are bad for your teeth, according to dentists
You bought an electric toothbrush. You floss. But are you eating stuff that's known to wreck your teeth — or worse, have you seeking out an emergency dental appointment? 'Some foods and drinks can have a significant negative impact on dental health, causing damage, staining, cavities, etc.,' Dr. Erin Fraundorf, dentist at Boca Orthodontic and Whitening Studio in Missouri, tells Yahoo Life. According to Fraundorf, a good general rule of thumb is that if something can stain a white T-shirt, it can also stain your teeth. 'Things like coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, sports drinks, tomatoes, curry and berries contain pigments that cling to your tooth's enamel and leave surface stains," she says. See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Anything with a pH above or below neutral can harm enamel, adds Dr. Amy Sliwa Lies, DDS, owner of FiveSix Family Dental in Illinois. 'Foods and drinks that contain sugar can feed the bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria, in turn, produce acid that can damage your enamel,' she says. There are also some common culprits that can wreak havoc on your teeth — and keep your dentists very, very busy. Here's which food and drinks our dental experts want you to watch out for. Caramels, gummy bears, Tootsie Rolls and Sour Patch Kids are tasty. They can also stick to teeth and provide fuel for bacteria, which in turn produce acid that leads to cavities. 'Sticky candies are especially damaging as they cling to hard-to-reach places, making your toothbrush less effective,' says Fraundorf. Adds Lies: "The sugar-free versions of the above are better, but still problematic." Limiting consumption of these candies and rinsing or brushing your teeth soon after you eat them can reduce damage. Jawbreaker candy, peppermints and other similarly crunchy candies expose teeth to sugar for extended periods of time and put your teeth at risk for chipping when bitten. 'Avoid frequent consumption and never bite down on them,' says Fraundorf. What's the harm in crackers like saltines and Goldfish? These starchy snacks are easy for bacteria to break down into sugar. As dentist Dr. Mark Burhenne warns in a recent Instagram post, "Goldfish create a sticky paste that clings to teeth, feeding cavity-causing bacteria for hours." If you (or your child) can't resist, Fraundorf suggests eating the crackers with a meal and then brushing and flossing afterward to remove residue left between the teeth. Anyone who's had braces may remember warnings about eating tortilla chips that could damage dental work. Otherwise, the biggest risk these and other hard, crunchy chips pose is the potential for a sharp jab to the gums or roof of the mouth. These chips should also be eaten with caution if someone has a compromised tooth that is susceptible to breaking if they bite down the wrong way. 'The tooth may have had a filling or decay or an existing crack, which is common in people who grind their teeth," says Lies. "Teeth that have had a root canal treatment tend to be more brittle and will break off more easily." Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges and grapefruit are high in acid, which weakens enamel, especially with frequent and direct exposure. 'Enjoy in moderation and rinse your mouth with plain, flat water afterward,' advises Fraundorf. Dried fruit tends to be sticky and adhere to teeth. 'And while the sugar is natural, they are high in sugar, providing fuel for cavity-causing bacteria,' Fraundorf notes. 'Rinse or brush after eating them or opt for fresh fruits that have water content.' As WebMD reports, apples, pears and melons all fit the bill. Chewing ice can chip, crack or weaken teeth, especially as enamel thins with age. 'Any food or drink can damage our teeth at an accelerated rate when we are older because our enamel is thinner or sometimes worn through to the dentin — the inner layer of the tooth — and less resistant to changes in pH/bacteria,' Lies explains. But even teeth that are in otherwise good condition are vulnerable to ice, Lies adds. 'Chewing ice is probably the No. 1 thing that will break a virgin tooth" — meaning, a tooth that hasn't had cavities, filings or dental work — according to Lies. If ice is the No. 1 threat to healthy teeth, popcorn kernels aren't far behind. "Second place would be a kernel of popcorn,' says Lies. And, as Colgate notes, it's not just those hard, unpopped kernels — which can crack a tooth or damage dental implants — that make popcorn risky. Hulls can also get stuck between the teeth or even irritate the gums and cause an abscess to form. While many foods can be harmful to teeth, Lies reminds us that teeth exist so we can eat. She suggests the following ways to keep your teeth as healthy as possible. Keep the time foods and drinks are consumed to a 20-minute window. Limit snacks. Drink water or chew sugar-free gum after eating to stimulate saliva and return the pH in your mouth to neutral. Drink fluoridated water and use toothpaste with fluoride to help remineralize enamel. Brush teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food debris, which contain bacteria that can excrete acid onto your teeth. Fraundorf says that it's worth adding other, more tooth-friendly foods to your diet. "Fight stains with fruits and veggies like strawberries, apples and watermelon, which all contain a lot of malic acid, [which is] known to whiten your teeth by removing surface stains and increasing saliva," she says. "Eat celery and leafy greens because they exfoliate plaque off your teeth. Dark, leafy greens contain calcium (which counteracts the effects of acids) and folic acid, which is essential to gum tissue cell growth."
Yahoo
27-01-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This is the best way to whiten your teeth at home, according to dentists
While most Americans pine for toothpaste-commercial-white teeth as much as we do symmetrical features or a thick head of hair, the desire for a brighter smile isn't just a matter of vanity. Research shows our dental health is actually directly tied to our mental health and, according to a slew of studies, yellowing, dullness and stains (along with crookedness and decay) can put a hurting on our self-esteem and, in the process, negatively impact the quality of our lives. Luckily, there's a solution for our dental woe. While in-office teeth whitening performed by a professional is by far the fastest path to a glowing grin, recent advancements in whitening technology have wrought an array of effective, affordable and easily accessible at-home treatments. You just need to know which one is right for you. "When it comes to over-the-counter teeth-whitening products, the most effective options typically contain peroxide-based bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients are able to penetrate the tooth enamel to remove stains and discoloration," says New York City cosmetic dentist Dr. Mike Wei. "At-home teeth whitening kits are generally recommended for individuals with mild to moderate teeth staining or discoloration. Good candidates for at-home teeth whitening typically have healthy teeth and gums without any underlying dental issues that may require professional intervention." Wei explains that the options for at-home teeth brightening are myriad — including whitening toothpastes, strips, trays and pens — and the best one for you really depends on your lifestyle and preferences (toothpastes and strips take less time and, often, money; whereas trays and pens can be more potent and effective). "There are a very wide variety of products and brands available with varying concentrations of bleaching agents," explains Dr. Erin Fraundorf, orthodontist and founder of Boca Orthodontic + Whitening Studio. However, Fraundorf warns not all over-the-counter (OTC) whiteners are created equal: "Unlike the whitening products utilized by a dentist, OTC products have a much lower concentration of active whitening ingredient. This means that it will take significantly longer for your teeth to whiten and they may have minimal or decreased efficacy against deep stains." Adds Wei, "Ultimately, the effectiveness of an over-the-counter teeth whitener varies depending on individual factors such as the severity of staining, compliance with product instructions, and personal oral hygiene habits." Last, if you experience any pain, sensitivity, or other issues while using an at-home whitening product, stop and consult a dentist. When selecting an at-home whitening product, both Wei and Fraundorf shared a number of the key factors to consider, including: Active Ingredients: Look for products containing proven whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are responsible for the chemical reaction that breaks down stains. Concentration: Always check out the concentration of the active ingredient. Lower concentrations are gentler on teeth and have longer wear time (ie: overnight), while higher concentrations work faster (ie: 30 minute wear time). ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). This ensures they meet safety and efficacy standards. Method of use: There are a variety of options. Choose a style that fits your lifestyle, whether it's strips, trays or pens. Sensitivity considerations: If you have sensitive teeth, opt for products designed specifically for sensitive users or those that include desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate. Reputable brand: Stick with trusted brands that are known for quality dental care products. Experts also emphasize that it's always best to consult your dentist first for personalized recommendations. They can help you choose the right product and ensure you don't accidentally cause damage to your teeth or gums. "Consistency is key when it comes to achieving the best results with teeth whitening," says Fraundorf. Here are her additional tips to enhance your whitening efforts: Follow instructions: Whether using strips, trays, or gels, make sure to follow the product's instructions exactly to avoid overuse, which can lead to significant sensitivity or damage. Brush before whitening: Clean teeth before applying whitening products to remove plaque and ensure better contact with the enamel. Avoid staining food & drinks: After whitening, try to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods (like berries, ketchup, turmeric) for at least 24 hours to prevent new stains from forming. Use a desensitizing toothpaste: Toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce the discomfort caused by whitening agents. Protect your gums: Use caution and be conservative with whitening products; avoid using excess amounts that will seep over to your gums, causing irritation. Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent staining and keep your teeth clean. Touch up regularly: Periodically use whitening products to maintain results. But don't overdo it; excessive use of these products can damage your enamel. Realistic expectations: "Understand that at-home whitening products may not produce the same dramatic results as professional whitening treatments. Manage your expectations and be patient with the whitening process," says Wei. Also important, says Fraundorf: "Patients with any restorative work must be aware that any artificial tooth structure (i.e., crowns, veneers, composite) will not whiten. Plus, any spots on the enamel or intrinsic deep stains [i.e., from medications] will not go away with teeth whitening." Mostly, yes! However: "Various oral conditions will lend to some patients being less ideal candidates for at-home whitening [via over the counter and professional-grade-strength products]," says Fraundorf. "These include gingival (gum tissue) recession, wear facets (from teeth grinding), chips or cracks in the teeth, plural necrosis (tooth with a dead nerve), deep medication-caused staining, periodontal disease or a history of sensitivity." Additionally, she says, patients who are pregnant, under the age of 12 or have untreated dental issues (i.e., cavities that have not been restored) should avoid any sort of teeth whitening. In terms of general safety, keep in mind that the sole current formal certification of teeth-whitening products is the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance. While some products carry this seal, not all do. "Some products without [the seal] are still fine to use, but there is no way for the general consumer to know how to decipher safety and efficacy of a product," says Fraundorf. When in doubt, experts say, choose products carrying the ADA seal. To safely whiten your teeth at home, follow product instructions and use professional-grade, ADA-approved products. Avoid overuse, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, maintain good oral hygiene and take breaks between treatments. Above all, always get personalized advice from your dentist. "You only get one set of permanent teeth, so it's important to take good care of them!" Fraundorf says. Echoes Wei: "Before starting any at-home whitening regimen, it's a good idea to consult with your dentist. They can assess your oral health and recommend the best whitening product for your specific needs."
