Dental Whitening Series: What's in your Whitening Toothpaste?

Are you wondering how a daily squeeze works to lighten your teeth?

What gives you that bright smile? 

In most tubes you will find a whitening agent like baking soda, silica or hydrogen peroxide. That last one is the same ingredient used to lighten hair, but in a much lower concentration (pastes have a maximum of 6% compared to up to 12% in hair dye.)


What is the downside of whitening toothpaste?  

Those bleaching particles are abrasive and can expose the sensitive layer of tissue underneath enamel called dentin. Help prevent this by choosing a soft bristle brush and brushing gently, at least twice a day, when using a whitening formula.

You cannot expect miracles. 

A whitening paste improves everyday surface stains from things like coffee and red wine and is a great maintenance tool after a pro-whitening session, but in-office treatments give better, faster results.

Their flavorings have benefits. 

Since sugar causes cavities, chemists use other natural and artificial sweeteners in all kinds of toothpaste  - and they do more than add taste. Sorbitol, a synthetic sugar alcohol, also helps to maintain the paste's texture. The natural sugar alcohol xylitol prevents bacterial growth to stop cavities from forming.

TIP: 

Look for one with fluoride. Fluoride prevents decay and restores enamel that can be broken down by coarse whiteners.

reference: 
Dr. Oz - The Good Life Magazine
Nylaan Dental Team  

Nylaan Dental
5011 Plainfield Ave NE
Grand Rapids MI 49525

Start off the New Year right.... keep your teeth pearly white...

While the winter chill might have your teeth chattering, there are a lot of easy ways you can keep those pearly whites smiling through the winter months. Speaking of teeth chattering, it’s usually related to shivering, the body’s natural response to cold. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRUSH 

Your toothbrush goes to work for you every day, so make sure you take good care of it and replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn, to make sure it is cleaning effectively.

It’s a good idea to thoroughly rinse your brush each time and store it in an upright position where it can air dry between uses. Avoid storing your toothbrush in a closed container or covering it, as the moist conditions can encourage the growth of bacteria. 

AVOID SPREADING GERMS 

With the many winter colds and flu bugs, it’s important to replace your toothbrush after you've been sick. Never share your toothbrush, as it can result in exchange of germs between users.

If toothbrushes are stored in the same holder, make sure they are separated to prevent cross-contamination. People with compromised immune systems might consider replacing toothbrushes more frequently to decrease exposure to bacteria.


WEAR A MOUTH GUARD 

If you like to venture out on the ice for a bit of hockey or hit the court for a basketball game, be sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.  Oral health injuries among athletes account for more than 600,000 emergency room visits per year, and sports-related injuries account for three times more facial/dental injuries than violence or traffic accidents. Mouth guards not only protect the teeth and gums but cut the risk of concussion by 50 percent. 

DRINK LOTS OF WATER 

Make sure to keep drinking plenty of water — fluoridated is best — throughout the winter months. The water will help wash away food particles and reduce the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Staying hydrated also will keep your body producing a healthy amount of saliva, which works to help build and maintain the health of soft and hard tissues in your mouth. 

DON’T IGNORE SENSITIVITY 

If the cold air is bothering your teeth, be sure to get it checked out. Your dentist can help determine if there is a problem or if it is general sensitivity that can be taken care of with special toothpaste. 

SEE YOUR DENTIST REGULARLY 

Regular exams and cleanings will help you prevent problems and identify them early so they can be addressed in the most effective way possible. Don’t put off scheduling your dentist appointment. 

Reference: 

Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists also are members of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association. 

Happy Holidays

from the Nylaan Dental Team 

Healthy Smile Series: Reduce your risk of tooth decay

 

Americans consume foods and drinks that are high in sugar and starches more than ever before. Alarmingly, a steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can ruin teeth, especially among those who snack throughout the day. Grazing habitually on foods with minimal nutritional value, and frequently sipping on sugary drinks — such as pop, energy drinks and juice — all have a tendency to contribute towards tooth decay and send you straight to the dentist.

Sugar on teeth supplies food for bacteria, which produces acid. The acid in turn can eat away the enamel on teeth. Almost all foods have some type of sugar that cannot and should not be eliminated from our diets. Many of them contain important nutrients and add enjoyment to eating. But there is extra risk for tooth decay if your diet is high in sugars and starches. Starches can be found in everything from bread to pretzels to salad dressing, so read labels and plan carefully for a balanced, nutritious diet.

Some ways you can reduce your risk of tooth decay:

• If you choose to consume sugary foods and drinks, do so with meals.
• Limit between-meal snacks.
• Drink more water.
• Brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily.
• See your dentist regularly.

Brought to you by the office of Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

Have you been naughty or nice to your teeth?

If you've seen the holiday TV special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” then you know Hermey the Elf is very excited about becoming a dentist. He loves teeth, and he thinks everyone should know how to take care of them.

Here is a healthy teeth checklist Hermey uses so he can remember how to keep his mouth healthy.

Moms and dads, using this checklist can help your kids remember to take care of their teeth, too.


•Brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes. Even the boss elf brushes his teeth for two minutes two times a day.

•Eat healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables. It’s not good for your teeth when you eat sticky candy or sugary cookies.

•Avoid drinking sodas, juices and sports drinks with a lot of sugar. Rudolph and Santa’s Sleigh Team always drink lots of water with fluoride in it. That’s why they have such strong, healthy teeth.

•Protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard whenever you play any sports. Rudolph and the reindeer never play games without wearing their mouthguard! 

•Visit your dentist. Just like Hermey, your dentist wants to help you take care of your teeth. Going to the dentist and getting your teeth cleaned is very important. Why?

Because yucky plaque can stick to your teeth and make a hole in your tooth. This is called a cavity.

Hermey doesn't want you to have a cavity because it can make your tooth hurt.

Remember, it’s never too late to be nice to your teeth. A healthy mouth is good for your whole body.

Now that’s the kind of joy that makes Santa ho-ho-ho.

Reference: West Michigan District Dental Society  WMDDS Member Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

West Michigan District Dental Society Member ~ Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

Start the new year off right....keep pearly whites healthy all year round

While the winter chill might have your teeth chattering, there are a lot of easy ways you can keep those pearly whites smiling through the winter months. Speaking of teeth chattering, it’s usually related to shivering, the body’s natural response to cold. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRUSH 

Your toothbrush goes to work for you every day, so make sure you take good care of it and replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn, to make sure it is cleaning effectively.

It’s a good idea to thoroughly rinse your brush each time and store it in an upright position where it can air dry between uses. Avoid storing your toothbrush in a closed container or covering it, as the moist conditions can encourage the growth of bacteria. 

AVOID SPREADING GERMS 

With the many winter colds and flu bugs, it’s important to replace your toothbrush after you've been sick. Never share your toothbrush, as it can result in exchange of germs between users.

If toothbrushes are stored in the same holder, make sure they are separated to prevent cross-contamination. People with compromised immune systems might consider replacing toothbrushes more frequently to decrease exposure to bacteria.


WEAR A MOUTH GUARD 

If you like to venture out on the ice for a bit of hockey or hit the court for a basketball game, be sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.  Oral health injuries among athletes account for more than 600,000 emergency room visits per year, and sports-related injuries account for three times more facial/dental injuries than violence or traffic accidents. Mouth guards not only protect the teeth and gums but cut the risk of concussion by 50 percent. 

DRINK LOTS OF WATER 

Make sure to keep drinking plenty of water — fluoridated is best — throughout the winter months. The water will help wash away food particles and reduce the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Staying hydrated also will keep your body producing a healthy amount of saliva, which works to help build and maintain the health of soft and hard tissues in your mouth. 

DON’T IGNORE SENSITIVITY 

If the cold air is bothering your teeth, be sure to get it checked out. Your dentist can help determine if there is a problem or if it is general sensitivity that can be taken care of with special toothpaste. 

SEE YOUR DENTIST REGULARLY 

Regular exams and cleanings will help you prevent problems and identify them early so they can be addressed in the most effective way possible. Don’t put off scheduling your dentist appointment. 

Reference: 
Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists also are members of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association. 

The truth about tooth whitening

One of the questions dentists hear most often from patients is, “How can I make my teeth look whiter?” Today, more than ever before, people value white teeth and a bright smile. And, with a variety of products on the market, a great-looking smile is within reach of most everyone. According to the American Dental Association, “whitening” is any process that will make teeth appear whiter. This can be achieved in two ways. A whitening product can bleach the tooth, which means it actually changes the natural tooth color. Bleaching products contain peroxide(s) that help remove deep stains as well as surface stains. 

Nylaan Dental 

By contrast, non-bleaching whitening products contain agents that work by physical or chemical action to help remove surface stains only.
It’s important to realize teeth-whitening is a cosmetic procedure. White teeth aren't necessarily healthy teeth, and “yellow” teeth aren't necessarily unhealthy. The fact is, teeth come in various shades naturally. Although they might at times become stained, discolored or even yellow, they still can be healthy. Remember, too, that certain foods and beverages can stain teeth.
Coffee, tea and wine are some of these most common offenders.

TALK WITH YOUR DENTIST

Talk with your dentist about teeth-whitening and the best options for you. He or she can tell you whether whitening procedures would be effective.

Whiteners might not correct all types of discoloration.
Talk with your dentist about teeth-whitening and the best options for you. He or she can tell you whether whitening procedures would be effective.
Whiteners might not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellowish hued teeth probably will bleach well, brownish colored teeth might bleach less well, and grayish-hued teeth might not bleach well at all.

If you have had bonding or tooth-colored fillings placed in your front teeth, the whitener will not affect the color of these materials, and they’ll stand out in your newly whitened smile. You might want to investigate other options, such as porcelain veneers
If you have had bonding or tooth-colored fillings placed in your front teeth, the whitener will not affect the color of these materials, and they’ll stand out in your newly whitened smile. You might want to investigate other options, such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding.

According to the American Dental Association’s website,
According to the American Dental Association’s website,mouthhealthy.org , if you’re a candidate for whitening, there are several ways to brighten your smile: 
 In-office bleaching: 

This procedure is called chair side bleaching and usually requires only one office visit. The dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent then is applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used. Lasers have been used during tooth whitening procedures to enhance the action of the whitening agent.
At-home bleaching:  

Peroxide-containing whiteners actually bleach the tooth enamel. They typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard.
Usage regimens vary.
There are potential side effects, such as increased sensitivity or gum irritation. Speak with your dentist if you have any concerns. 
Whitening toothpastes:

All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes in the ADA Seal of Acceptance program have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness.

Unlike bleaches, these ADA Accepted products do not change the color of teeth because they can only remove stains on the surface.
All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes in the ADA Seal of Acceptance program have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness.
Unlike bleaches, these ADA Accepted products do not change the color of teeth because they can only remove stains on the surface. 
REGULAR DENTAL CARE IS IMPORTANT, TOO  

As always, regular dental care — brushing, flossing and checkups — will keep your mouth healthy and your teeth in top condition. Be sure to make, and keep, your dental appointments.

Remember, when selecting a whitener or any dental product, be sure to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance — your assurance that they have met ADA standards of safety and effectiveness.

Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists also are members of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association.


 Dr. Nylaan has been a member of the West Michigan District Dental Society since 1985.