Since the early 90s, society has been bombarded with ads for teeth whitening products that made white teeth and good oral health synonymous. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting a brighter smile for appearance purposes, it’s a mistake to think that teeth whitening can make up for poor oral hygiene.

Continue reading to find the nuances of tooth color and oral health, and ways that you can achieve a better smile.

September marks a few important things: kicking off a new school year, the start of cooler autumn weather, and of course, the beginning of Gum Care Month! Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide of all ages and walks of life—and despite its prevalence, it’s quite harmful to one’s smile and wellness! But did you know that by simply knowing more about the condition, you’re giving yourself an edge when it comes to protecting yourself from it? Here are three fascinating facts about gum disease that your dentist wants you to remember.