The dental industry doesn’t exactly have the sexiest track record. There’s the whole stuffy office thing. The harsh scrubbing. The pointy objects stabbing at your gums. It’s no wonder that 70 percent of people report having experienced anxiety in anticipation of dentist appointments.
But luckily for anyone who’s ever known dental dread, the industry is getting a makeover. See: millennial-adored dental studios that feel like spas, not torture chambers, and products from oral-care companies with display-worthy packaging and buzzy new ingredients.
The result? Looking after your teeth and gums now feels like a self-care ritual, not a chore. And this transformation is a good thing, considering there’s a strong link between oral health and your overall well-being.
The catch? Not every mouth-care practice in style right now is worthwhile or a wise idea (Siri, explain “activated charcoal”). Here, top dentists spill the, uh, mouthwash on the latest oral-hygiene trends so you can make sure your dental routine is powerful, practical and pleasant.
THE CLAIM
Oil pulling can nix bad bacteria in your mouth and prevent Alzheimer’s.
REALITY CHECK: WORTH IT... WITH A CATCH
Oil pulling means swishing oil, typically coconut, around in your mouth to supposedly remove toxins. Pros say the practice can protect gums, thanks to the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of coconut oil. “I also find that oil pulling helps reduce the number of [ulcers] patients get,” says dentist Dr Jennifer Plotnick. As for the Alzheimer’s-fighting claim? There’s no evidence to back that up.
THE CLAIM
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Irreconcilable Differences?
You’re one-upping your partner on all health fronts and now your relationship has more tension than your new resistance bands. Here’s how to get over the hurdle of mismatched goals.
Hot And Bothered
Inflammation is all the rage in health conversations right now and research is establishing it as a major player in all sorts of issues you don't want to deal with. But! You can safeguard yourself from the smokin' internal inferno with these smart strategies.
Self-esteem under the microscope
The term brings to mind positive-thinking memes with sunset backdrops and swirly lettering. But could I you sum up self-esteem when asked as part of a pub quiz? Didn't think so. And there's more at stake here than winning the points.
the reset
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO START OVER
Mind Over Muscle
Could you level up your strength training just by putting your mind to it?
ON BEING THE HEROINE OF YOUR OWN LIFE
Olympian. All-African Games winner. African champion. Record-breaker. Javelin athlete Jo-Ané van Dyk talks mental fortitude and what it takes to live up to your own hype. If there's one thing she can do, it's to throw down. And it's all about to reach peak levels.
Why Women Are Choosing to Be Child-Free
The choice can be liberating, yet stigmas persist. Here, how to cut through the noise with clarity and confidence to make the decision that's right for *you.*
FUEL YOUR SKIN
Inside your body, there's a crew of unsung protein heroes that scientists believe are the key to a healthy, glowing complexion. Heads-up: your routine is about to change for the better.
How To Be Decisive
You could use a Magic 8 ball to help you make a choice. Or, while you're waiting to 'ask again later', let our experts explain the best ways to get unstuck.
Build A Strong Base
You heard it here: the pelvic floor is the forgotten core - and you're selling yourself short by waiting for a specific life stage to train it. Your four-move workout is here.
