Whiter Teeth

 I think that it is a social quest to have the whitest teeth you can possibly have. We all know that the best thing to do for your teeth is visit the dentist, brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss. I truly believe that the products you use can help in getting your teeth white, bright and maintaining them that way.

The photo above has not been touched up by any means. I have what would be a borderline obsession with white teeth. I am a coffee, tea, and dark cola drinker, 90% of my fluid daily intake would fit in that realm. I do notice that my bottom teeth are a shade darker than the top, but my friends think I'm crazy for not being satisfied with what I have now. I was once told to stop whitening because my teeth were as white as a sheet of paper. O.k., I can get carried away- kind of like tanning ( a whole other story).

I've been asked what products do I use and how often. My favorite toothpaste is UltraBright by Colgate. I know that it can be hard to find that kind of paste, so my second choice would be Mentadent. I'm lazy and just brush my teeth twice a day and not after every meal. I should because I hate little food particles in between my teeth. The type of toothbrush can also affect your outcome. I like oscillating ones, currently I'm using Sonicare. I feel that along with moving your hand in mini circles the oscillating toothbrushes just agitates the food and germs better.

When I was younger I hated flossing. I just felt that it didn't do much and it was a waste of time. It's all about technique. Since I've never mastered it I use the Braun Hummingbird flossing tool. You'll be so surprised how fresh and clean feeling your teeth will be after using it. Another thing that I hated when I was younger? Listerine, yep. Who likes the burning sensation in your mouth? My grandpa had used the old school greenish brown one (gross, I know). Now I use the Cool Mint to loosen up the junk that accumulates.

To jump start the process of whitening my teeth I used whitening strips. I've tried several brands and the one that works for me is AquaFresh trays. I think that I used it several days straight which can cause some sensitivity. When I was happy with the shade of my teeth, I just use the trays to help maintain about once every 3 months or so.

I know that it may sound like this huge process, but once you have your routine down it's not a big deal. I think the effort is well worth it, and I'm really happy with my teeth.

Products:

• Ultrabrite Toothpaste
• Mentadent Toothpaste

• Sonicare Toothbrush
• Spinbrush Toothbrush

• Oral B Hummingbird Flossing Tool
• Cool Mint Listerine

• Aquafresh White Trays

 *Just a little side note- These products work for me and are just a suggestion. I can't personally guarantee the same results.