Dr. Michael Apa’s Affordable Tips for Achieving a Celebrity Smile
There’s never an unwelcome moment to enhance your smile, and fortunate for Us, Dr. Michael Apa has shared his top oral care tips that will have you beaming as if you’ve just disembarked from a private jet — even if you’re homebound.
Dub him the real-life tooth fairy: Apa boasts an impressive array of celebrity clients, including Jennifer Lopez, Kylie, and Kendall Jenner. He operates four cutting-edge Apa Aesthetic offices in New York, L.A., Dubai, and Miami. Since 2004, this esteemed dentist, known for his expertise in minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry, has earned acclaim for his naturally beautiful smile makeovers. Although his services begin at $50,000, he offers budget-friendly tips for those unable to visit in person.
Continue reading to learn about straightforward guidelines (and some surprising myths!), including foods that promote stronger, whiter teeth and trendy toothpaste you might wish to avoid:
Select the Right Whitening Kit
“[It’s] a quick, straightforward solution for a more attractive smile,” Apa tells Us. While professional treatments are often “stronger,” you can still achieve brighter teeth at home. Ensure that hydrogen peroxide — or carbamide peroxide for those with sensitivity — is included in the ingredients. The expert suggests applying the product to “freshly brushed teeth” and, when possible, scheduling a professional cleaning one to two months prior to using your kit. We recommend Crest’s 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects.
Your Post-Brightening Routine Matters
Your dietary choices in the 48 hours post-whitening impact the results significantly. “Steer clear of foods and beverages that could stain a white T-shirt,” Apa warns. Think red wine, coffee, chocolate, and berries. Fruits that are low in acidity and light in color (like bananas and pears) are safe bets, along with nutritious choices such as egg whites, potatoes, and yogurt.
Incorporate Certain Foods Daily
“An apple a day keeps the dentist away,” Apa emphasizes, adding that munching on fibrous and textured foods can help dislodge debris between brushing and flossing.
Beware of Activated Charcoal
“Natural isn’t always better,” Apa cautions. “Many products are pushed by marketers — look for those backed by industry experts.” Activated charcoal serves as a prime example. Despite being heavily marketed in health and beauty, Apa advises against it. “It’s abrasive, and while it may claim to remove stains, it could also strip away enamel.”
Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar
This popular kitchen staple is also a no-go. “[It’s] highly acidic and can result in tooth erosion,” Apa explains. “I strongly advise against any whitening product that works solely as a stain remover by breaking down the protective layer of your teeth.”
Choose Your Toothpaste Carefully
No matter how tempting that viral purple toothpaste looks, resist the urge. “Your toothpaste should contain either fluoride or hydroxyapatite, which help remineralize teeth after exposure to acidic or abrasive foods,” he clarifies. “For those with sensitive teeth, calcium hydroxide is also important. Abrasive toothpastes can erode enamel. Look for a formula with a low RDA [Relative Dentin Abrasion] value.” Try the Apa White Toothpaste!
Don’t Hesitate to Use Night Guards
Sure, they might feel awkward at first, but Apa emphasizes their crucial role in managing stress, “a trigger for clenching and grinding — habits that can lead to swollen gums, tooth loss, and more,” he notes. Apa also suggests opting for a hard night guard over a soft one as it tends to be more resilient.
Opt for a Sonic Toothbrush
“It truly makes a difference,” he states about this oral care device, which is superior at plaque removal compared to a regular toothbrush, thanks to its motorized brush head. Shown here: Apa Clean Sonic Toothbrush.
