A dentist has said that brushing your teeth twice a day won't improve the colour of your teeth, but has revealed there is a way you can help boost whiteness.
The topic arose when a TikToker recently shared a video showing off her 'yellow' teeth.
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In the clip she wrote: "I brush my teeth 2 times a day and my teeth are yellow."
The video has been viewed 7.5 million times and has more than 332,000 comments, suggesting many others find the issue relatable.
Responding to the clip, Spotlight Oral Care (@spotlightoralcare) shared a TikTok video of its own that included some helpful advice from a dentist, who said simply brushing your teeth once a day doesn't guarantee any improvement in the shade of your gnashers.
The dentist added that what you actually need an 'active ingredient that is peroxide-based' to boost whiteness.
She said: "We really, really recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to improve the health of your mouth, but it doesn't necessarily change the shade or the colour of your teeth.
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"If you want to change the colour of your teeth, you need to use an active ingredient that is peroxide-based. Hydrogen peroxide is one of the key active ingredients that has been clinically proven to whiten your teeth in a safe way."
According to the NHS, there are many other ways you can help look after the general health of your teeth and mouth.
As well as brushing twice a day, it is recommended to floss or use an interdental brush every day to remove any food, debris and plaque that's become stuck between your teeth.
Advice on the NHS website also encourages people to follow a 'healthy lifestyle', which includes 'eating well, not smoking and limiting your alcohol and sugar intake'.
"It's good for your whole body, including your teeth, gums and mouth," the website says.
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People should also make sure they're going to see their dentist regularly for check-ups, as detecting problems early can mean they're 'easier to treat'.
"If problems aren't treated, they may lead to damage that's harder, or even impossible, to repair," the website adds.
The NHS' advice on teeth whitening also explains: "Teeth whitening is a form of dentistry and should only be carried out by a dentist or another regulated dental professional, such as a dental hygienist or dental therapist, on the prescription of a dentist.
"Some beauty salons offer teeth whitening, but this is illegal if there's no dental professional present, and it may put your oral health at risk."
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Featured Image Credit: PA
Topics: News, Teeth, Health, TikTok