Connection Dentistry Raleigh Blog

Teeth whitening is one of the best ways to give your smile a brighter, more appealing look. There are a wide range of whitening products that are available over the counter. From strips to whitening toothpaste, there are a range of options that are easily accessible at many grocery and drug stores. As easy as these products are to get your hands on, that doesn’t mean that they’re the best option for your smile. Read on to learn about some of the potential harms of overusing over-the-counter teeth whitening products.

Oral health is about more than just your teeth. Your gums cover the bones of your mouth and teeth, as well as provide a protective barrier against bacteria. By maintaining a consistent and healthy dental routine, you can protect both your teeth and gums. But what if you are noticing some negative changes in your gums? It’s important to not neglect any signs of gum (periodontal) disease by believing it isn’t that big of a deal. Your dentist is here to bust four myths about gum disease so that misconceptions about it never will keep you from your best smile!

Toothbrushes have come a long way since primitive times. Instead of having to use the frayed end of a wooden twig or a rough cloth to scrub the teeth, modern times have provided the luxury of plastic molded handles with nylon bristles ready to keep your pearly whites bright and healthy! On top of the endless variety of manual toothbrushes out there, there are also electric brushes that do all of the work for you. But is one more beneficial than the other? Your dentist in Raleigh is going to cover the pros and cons of manual and electric toothbrushes so you can make the best choice for your smile!

Over the last few years, social media has made over-the-counter teeth whiteners more popular. You’ve likely noticed this trend yourself. Depending on who you read, posts claim OTC whiteners give you a bright smile without the hassle of a dental visit. Said items are cost-effective, too, as store-bought products use less time and money. In truth, though, OTC whitening doesn’t work as well as many suggest; you’re better off with pro service. To learn more, here’s a summary of the faults behind teeth whitening products in Raleigh and why to see a dentist instead.

Invisalign really is a convenient orthodontic treatment. Instead of using metal brackets and wires, it relies on clear plastic trays that straighten teeth in just a year! Still, the process has its share of aftercare needs. In particular, it has you use a retainer to preserve your straightened smile. You may be wondering, then, what the timeline is for this new appliance. To help you learn the answer, here’s a summary of how long and why to wear a retainer after finishing Invisalign in Raleigh.