Modern-day research proves that teeth whitening products and particularly teeth whitening strips are largely responsible for the loss of a good amount of dental enamel, particularly if done at home. This could well range between 1.2-2 nanometres on the teeth that have been treated.

This teeth whitening damage is due to the varying potencies of bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, contained in teeth bleaching strips, among other products. These agents give rise to free radicals that attack pigment molecules contained in the organic parts of tooth enamel and weaken it. When the pigment is reduced, it means that the molecules do no reflect light anymore, and as a result, the teeth appear whiter than before.

It has been found that teeth whitening products reduce the hardness associated with enamel and its elastic modulus or the quality of stiffness, which gives the tooth its resilience when force is applied to it. Enamel is widely known to the hardest structure of the human body. It is largely translucent and inorganic, and is the yellowish feature of most teeth which can be attributed to the color of dentin that lies below the surface of the tooth.

Not only does it protect us from teeth whitening damage, but it also maintains the bite of the tooth. Despite this, enamel is susceptible to abrasion by certain chemical products and even by overly vigorous brushing. For these reasons, it is necessary to find ways to reduce the damage done to this fundamental part of the tooth.

Constant application of teeth whitening strips to the teeth usually leads to erosion of enamel that results in tooth sensitivity. Apart from this, if you eat and drink very hot or cold foods, it will result in dental pain.

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you – a great smile can make all the difference to your look as well as giving you a massive confidence-boost.

We all know that a well-balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy body, but it also plays an important part in keeping your teeth healthy and white. Where some food and drink can stain and ‘rot’ your teeth, there are certain foods that can actually whiten and strengthen your teeth.

Plaque can build up on the surface of teeth, the plaque itself is yellow, but stains from food and drink can stick to the plaque causing your teeth to look yellowish. If the plaque is not removed, plaque can turn into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. Plaque and tartar build-up can cause tooth decay as well as leading to longer term problems such as gum disease.

The act of chewing stimulates saliva production. Saliva is a natural defence against the formation of plaque and washes away stains on the surface of the teeth. Saliva also protects your mouth in a number of ways; it washes away food debris, neutralises plaque bacteria, remineralises to repair tooth decay early on and helps to protect against infection.

Eating crunchy food is great for your teeth; try food such as carrots, apples and celery, which ‘scrub’ your teeth, helping to remove the plaque on the surface.

Strawberries, pineapples and oranges ‘polish’ the teeth – they contain acids and enzymes (such as malic acid) that act as natural whitening agents, making your teeth look brighter and whiter. These are often used as home tooth whitening remedies as an alternative to tooth bleaching treatments.

Dairy products contain lactic acid which can help to prevent tooth decay. These, and other calcium-rich foods, strengthen teeth and bones. Milk and yoghurt are especially good for you, as well as hard cheeses.

Sugar plays a significant part in tooth decay. The frequency of sugar consumption is more significant than the amount of sugar consumed. Plaque bacteria use sugar as a form of energy and multiply faster when sugar is present in the mouth. Avoid sugary drinks, in particular fizzy drinks and juices.

Tannin is a compound found in some food and drink and stains your teeth. Tannin-rich products include red wine, coffee, tea, walnuts and hazelnuts. Consuming these can darken the colour of your teeth.

Stay away from tobacco – smoking and chewing tobacco is terrible for your teeth, mouth and general oral health.

Internet site references:

http://www.hivehealthmedia.com

http://www.teethwhiteningknowhow.com