Chewing Gum for a More Beautiful Smile

Can chewing gum really help you keep your teeth healthier?

"Chewing the right kind of gum can boost your dental health," says Dr. Bradley Jergins, the Gentle Dentist of Spring Hill, Florida. "Some of the newer sugar-free gums contain additives like Xylitol calcium lactate, that can cut down on bad oral bacteria and make your teeth stronger."

Dr. Jergins adds that chewing gum (be sure it's sugar-free) can also produce more saliva in the mouth which helps prevent cavities.

There are, however, gum precautions: don't chew gum that has sugar (it's like giving your teeth a sugar bath), and don't chew gum if you have any TMJ symptoms. Other than that, start chewing!

Time to Shine

If you're ready to put your best face forward, then you're ready to see Dr. Jergins! Not only is Dr. Jergins a caring professional for your dental needs, he's also a provider for Juvederm and Botox.

"I'm pleased to be offering these services in Spring Hill," said Dr. Jergins. "Once someone is comfortable with the appearance of their smile, they often want to look into other ways to enhance their overall appearance. I really like these procedures because they make a big change without being invasive."

Before you decide to undergo treatment for Juvederm or Botox, be sure to seek out a professional who is approved to perform such services; like Dr. Jergins.

You can learn more about putting your best face forward by checking out www.botoxcosmetic.com.

"Jessica Simpson, please, brush your teeth!"

Pop star Jessica Simpson is in the news a lot this weekend. Not for a hot new relationship or a new song release, but because of her admission that she brushes her teeth only three times a week.

"My teeth are so white and I don't like them to feel too slippery but I do use Listerine and I do floss everyday," she told Ellen Degeneres. "But I don't brush them every day."

Oh. My. Goodness. First, if you have a smile as beautiful as Jessica's, you'd think you'd want to do everything in your power to keep it looking great.

"Many people are concerned primarily with how their smile looks," says Dr. Bradley Jergins. "But, if you don't take care of your teeth, your gums and your overall dental health, your beautiful smile will fade."

Dr. Jergins says that some patients come into the office and ask for teeth whitening or other cosmetic procedures without being willing to have their teeth examined first.

He says, "If you just tend to the appearance without first taking into account dental health, it's like building a house on a foundation of sand, or putting a fresh coat of pain on your house when there's termite damage underneath."

Dr. Jergins' advice for Jessica? "First, be thankful for your white teeth and enjoy your friendly smile, but I would recommend not brushing just once every day, but at least twice every day. As a performer, your appearance is part of your livelihood -- something you should take care of most carefully."