The latest beauty trend has got some serious side-effects

Aug 13, 2015

Ask anyone who has ever had them and they will tell you one thing is for sure: braces are very expensive.

However, it cannot be stressed enough that taking matters into your own hands with regards your teeth is just not an option. That has apparently not stopped some teens from attempting to try their hand at some DIY orthodontic work.

One YouTube blogger has posted a video which she calls “Cheap easy braces!! Without going to the dentist!!!!”

If anything this video has proved social media has got some seriously scary power these days.

The video has almost half a million views to date. In it, the blogger uses tiny elastic bands to basically tie her teeth together in order to close the gaps between them.

She tells her fans: “It’s gonna hurt, especially for the first few days.” She says that they shouldn’t give in to the pain thought because “it’s totally worth it in the end.”

This is not the only video online which is promoting the DIY trend, unfortunately.

Last September the American Association of Orthodontists put out a consumer alerts which advised individuals that using “gap bands” was a terrible idea.

One of the horrible side effects of this worrying trend? Your teeth can fall out! You only get one set of teeth people, this is not something to be tried at home.

Also worth noting: dentists and orthodontists go through years and years of training before anyone lets them correct any dental issues you may have, so maybe tiny plastic bands are not the next best thing.

It just doesn’t seem worth the risk ladies.

A quick guide on how to brush your teeth properly

Jun 12, 2015

by Amber Saunders

For something that is such a fixed part of our daily routine, it is amazing just how many of us get it wrong.

It is almost so second nature that we don’t really give it too much thought. The problem with this is if we become complacent with our routine or get lazy, we may not be giving our teeth the proper care that they need which can lead to problems such as cavities and gum disease.

So, instead of filling our mouths with nasty, painful fillings, let’s take a look at the simple way to brush our teeth properly.

It only takes two minutes

Two minutes is the correct amount of time each person needs to spend per teeth brushing session. You’re probably thinking “I always take two minutes to brush my teeth,” but you’d be surprised. The majority of people don’t spend nearly this amount of time, even when they think they do. Try using a watch or phone to make sure you are actually taking two minutes.

45-degree angle

Most of us start brushing across our teeth in wide, side-to-side strokes. But this can actually damage them and cause scrapes along the gum line. Instead, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and use short up-and-down strokes.

Mix it up

Out of sheer force of habit, we all generally tend to start brushing our teeth in the same place every time. The problem here is that a lot of us get bored and taper off towards the end of the process, meaning that there are certain spots in our mouth that are being neglected every time. Try starting from a different place every time you brush your teeth and it’ll make sure you get them all.

Too much is not good

The HSE recommended that we brush our teeth at least twice a day. However, any more than three times and you may start to wear down the enamel on your teeth.

Brush your tongue

Sometimes after we brush our teeth there can often still be a bad taste left in our mouths. This is because our tongues are the main cause of bad breath. So, when you have finished your brushing regime, gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Girl gets wisdom teeth out, does Ice Bucket Challenge

Aug 22, 2014

by Amber Saunders

We’re not sure if this wins or loses all of the Ice Bucket Challenges ever.

This girl got her wisdom teeth out, and judging by the blood, it wasn’t all that long ago. So, what better to do than decide this is the opportune moment to do the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS.

“Ssh… she’s coming!”

The bit where she actually throws the water has to be our favourite…you’ll see.

Thankfully, she herself is a little confused as to why she put the video up, writing in her YouTube account: "I guess for some reason I decided to do an Ice Bucket Challenge an hour after I got my wisdom teeth out?"

We're so glad you did though.

Would you use your boyfriend’s toothbrush?

Jul 16, 2014

by Amber Saunders

Going around without having brushed your teeth is an awful feeling, but is it bad enough to resort to using someone else’s toothbrush – particularly your other half’s as you’ve been kissing them anyway?

Here at SHEmazing we’re kind of split – is it better to use his toothbrush than to not brush at all?

Well, if you’re ever facing this dilemma again, perhaps take a look at what happens when you use someone else’s toothbrush. We trust you to make the right decision (i.e. just use your finger).

Infection
The Chicago Dental Society says that kids who use their siblings’ toothbrushes, are more likely to develop an infection that can lead to holes in their teeth and tooth decay. We imagine it’s the same if you’re using your boyfriend’s toothbrush. Also, apparently one of the most common bacteria’s found on a toothbrush is beta-hemolytic streptococcus, which causes strep throat – and you don’t want that. Mutant strains of streptococcus are known to cause decay aswell. Lovely.

Blood stream diseases
Dentists have warned that since sometimes your gums may bleed while brushing your teeth, sharing a toothbrush can transfer bloodstream diseases such as hepatitis – now THAT is kind of scary.

The things you didn’t know about keeping a healthy smile

Jun 3, 2014

by Amber Saunders

You may think that by brushing your teeth twice a day you will help keep your mouth healthy. But do you brush for long enough? And do you keep up with your dental appointments?

Recent research have shown that people with the most bacteria on the surface of their teeth and gums have an 80% increased risk of premature death, particularly from cancer.

So how can we keep our mouths healthy?

See your dentist regularly
Health guidelines advise that we shouldn’t leave longer than 24 months between dental appointments. If you have gum problems you should see your dentist every six months and those with good oral hygiene should go every 10 months.

Brush thoroughly
Twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is still enough, but brush properly. Always wait an hour to brush teeth after eating or drinking fruit juice, as acidic foods and drink soften the tooth enamel and leave it prone to damage.

Clean between teeth
A lot of decay and gum disease occurs between the teeth caused by food and the build-up of plaque, so this area shouldn’t be neglected. Floss once a day by sliding it gently up and down between your teeth, then curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gum line.

Chew gum after meals
Saliva is the tooth’s natural protective mechanism, and chewing gum helps produce it. Chew sugar-free gum after a meal or snack to increase saliva flow.

Scrape your tongue
Many toothbrushes have a scraper on the back for cleaning the tongue. Contrary to popular belief, the bacteria it removes is not connected to serious health conditions – but removing it may make us more pleasant to be around.

Use a mouthwash
This can be useful if it has additional effects, such as preventing decay or build-up of bacteria. But be warned, mouthwashes can’t replace brushing.

Monitor your gums
Our gums naturally start to recede as we age, but this can also indicate gum disease. Look out for bleeding gums as this is the first sign of the condition and means you need to see a dentist.

5 foods that can naturally whiten teeth

Apr 8, 2014

by Amber Saunders

We all know that drinks such as red wine, tea and coffee can lead to stained and yellowed teeth.

Well, did you know that these foods can not only help to whiten your teeth but also neutralise bad breath and keep gums healthy?

1. Strawberries
Everyone’s favourite fruit contains malic acid which acts as an astringent to remove pesky stains from your teeth.

2. Milk and yoghurt
These dairy goods are light in colour and contain high levels of calcium which will keep your teeth strong.

3. Pears
Neutralise bad breath with a pear!

4. Apples
These fruits have a high water content which promotes saliva leading to whiter teeth. Apples also strengthen gums.

5. Broccoli
Have some raw broccoli with your lunch and it will clean the surface of your teeth, keeping your pearly whites clean.

TOWIE star splashes out on cosmetic procedure after ‘horse’ jibes

Celebrity

Apr 7, 2014

by Amber Saunders

Chloe Sims has forked out thousands on new veneers after being taunted by her co-stars.

The TOWIE star is said to have paid £19,000 on the procedure after she received cruel jibes about her smile.

Chloe got her teeth done for the first time in 2011 but admitted people loved to have a dig at her about her gnashers.

“I get called a horse and sometimes drunken people shout: “Sort your teeth out!” And, to be honest, I now think my teeth are too long and too square,” she said.

The 32-year-old previously took to Twitter to defend former X Factor star Rylan Clark a few months before he got his teeth done in September 2013.

Last year, the reality TV star wrote on Twitter, “Aww @RylanClark don’t take no notice, if you happy then that’s all that counts, I ♥ big white teeth!! #hatersgonnahate.”

Speaking after the recent procedure, Chloe said, “Now that I’ve got a perfect smile I’m over the moon with them. Everybody loves them. I’ve had loads and loads of good feedback about them.”

You might want to book a trip to the dentist after reading this

Feb 24, 2014

by Amber Saunders

It seems brushing your teeth has more benefits than simply creating a bright white smile. According to researchers in the US, brushing your teeth can help prevent you from developing arthritis in old age.

During their study, scientists found a link between the bacteria that causes gum disease and early onset rheumatoid arthritis and found that gum disease is two times more prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

According to researchers in the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky, gum disease causes a unique enzyme that “enhances” collagen induced arthritis.

Jan Potempa, who led the research team, said: “Taken together, our results suggest that bacterial PAD may constitute the mechanistic link between P. Gingivalis, periodontal infection and rheumatoid arthritis, but this ground-breaking conclusion will need to be verified with further research.”

Maybe it’s time for a trip to the dentist.

How to get pearly whites

Feb 10, 2014

by Amber Saunders

Brushing is obviously the most important thing you can do to keep your teeth nice and white but it’s not all you can do.

Our top tips will ensure your teeth are nice and bright, without having to resort to teeth whitening strips.

Stop smoking

Not just for your teeth, but for your health and the health of those around you. Do it, now!

Avoid certain drinks

If you want pearly whites you will have to make a few sacrifices. Say goodbye to your glass of red wine, coffee and tea – life can be cruel, we know.

Eat your fruit and veggies

Eat more apples and carrots – they act as a toothbrush and can even help strengthen gums.

Rub strawberries across your teeth

Yes, you did read that right. Strawberries are a great way to lift stains so mash some up and rub onto your teeth.

Rinse with lemon water

Rinse your mouth with a glass of warm water and half a lemon. Use sparingly – the juice can cause erosion…

Now go smile with confidence.