Dental care
Learning Center
Want whiter teeth?
If your pearly whites are dulled by surface stains, whitening toothpaste can appear to whiten teeth slightly. Whitening toothpaste can't change the natural color of your teeth, however. For more noticeable results, ask your dentist about tooth-whitening bleaching products.
Brush up on how to brush your teeth
Are you brushing your teeth properly? Here's how to brush: Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle — aiming the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum. Gently brush with circular short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush. Brush your teeth twice a day.
Toothpicks: For hors d'oeuvres, not teeth
Have something stuck in your teeth? Use a toothbrush, dental floss, or an interdental cleaner — such as a dental pick, pre-threaded flosser, tiny brushes that reach between teeth, a water flosser, or wooden or silicone wedge plaque remover. Save toothpicks for olives. If you use a toothpick to clean your teeth, you could injure your gums and let in bacteria.
Oral health: A window to your overall health
Find out about the connection between your oral health and overall health.
Does flossing really make a difference?
Yes. You can't reach the bacteria in tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line with a toothbrush. Aim to floss daily. If you find it hard to handle floss, use an interdental cleaner — such as a dental pick, pre-threaded flosser, tiny brushes that reach between teeth, a water flosser, or wooden or silicone wedge plaque remover. As long as you do a thorough job, it doesn't matter if you brush or floss first.
Cholesterol-lowering supplements may be helpful
Diet and exercise are proven ways to reduce cholesterol. Cholesterol-lowering supplements might help, too.
Does prickly pear cactus have health benefits?
Have you heard about prickly pear cactus? Find out about some surprising health benefits of this versatile plant.
Curcumin: Can it slow cancer growth?
Some research suggests that curcumin may help prevent or treat cancer.
Alternative cancer treatments: 11 options to consider
Alternative cancer treatments may help you cope with cancer treatment side effects such as fatigue, pain, sleep problems, and nausea and vomiting.
L-arginine: Does it lower blood pressure?
This supplement may help some people lower their blood pressure. Learn who might benefit and who should stay away from it.
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