A healthy, confident smile is key when it comes to attractiveness. A striking smile conveys youthfulness and positivity, is irresistibly contagious and – according to countless studies – renders the individual more attractive.
So what makes a beautiful smile?
It seems almost intuitive. When we envisage a friendly, attractive smile it’s straight, white teeth that come to mind – the likes of Hollywood celebrities and television presenters.
But, according to an article by Matthews, T.G. The Anatomy of a Smile, published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, the smile is much more complicated than that. The anatomy of the smile involves the size of teeth, the size of mouth, the curvature of the lips, the exposure of the lips, the nasolabial folds and the shade and colouring of the teeth.
The colouring certainly has a big impact. Research by Kershaw, S. et al., published in the British Dental Journal, looked into the relationship between tooth colour and social perceptions among young female dental patients. The study found that whiter teeth received more positive appraisals, in terms of social competence, intellectual ability, relationship status and how introverted, happy or self-confident the individual appeared.
How to achieve that celebrity smile
Obviously, dental hygiene is integral to a killer smile. Cleaning tooth surfaces, as well as in-between teeth, is essential in warding off plaque (not to mention bad breath!) and keeping cavities and gum disease at bay.
A healthy smile should involve three simple steps, according to TePe, a Swedish manufacturer of oral hygiene products.
- Bushing teeth with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day
- Cleaning between the teeth using an interdental bush, floss or dental stick
- Using a tongue cleaner to remove bacteria from the tongue
We’re guessing it’s the second point that you need most help with…
The tooth has five sides – do you clean them all?
TePe have a range of products designed for cleaning in-between teeth to prevent interdental cavities and plaque build-up.
TePe Interdental Brushes
TePe’s Interdental Brushes are designed to clean between the teeth, where a toothbrush does not reach. They can be used daily to complement your normal oral hygiene routine.
The range of interdental brushes includes nine brush sizes, to fit all interdental spaces. All brushes come with plastic coated wire for safe use. The user-friendly handle and high-quality filaments offer efficient cleaning. Importantly, for those with sensitive smiles, a range of extra soft brushes is also available.
TePe Angle – the angled interdental brush
This brush is angled for easier access to interdental spaces at the back on the mouth. The slender, angled brush head facilitates use between the back teeth and from the inside.
Gel for interdental brushes
TePe’s fluoride gel can be applied upon the interdental brushes for extra whiteness and protection against cavities.
How to brush between your teeth
- Insert the Interdental Brush gently between your teeth. Do not force the brush into a space, choose a smaller size if the brush is too big.
- Move the brush full length back and forth a few times.
- Rinse the brush in water after use. Replace it when the filaments become worn.
For the first time TePe Interdental Brushes are widely available in Australia at pharmacies and online at www.oralcare4u.com.au
