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Here are six things you might not know that can keep those pearly whites pearly – or at least from falling out.

  • Mouth rinses: Maples says alcohol present in a lot of mouth washes -is a preserving agent that can actually cause oral cancer.  Also, stay away from mouthwashes that claim to make you teeth feel smooth as they contain a detergent that coats the plaque and debris trapping it underneath the slick. And finally: no mouthwash whitens teeth in 30 seconds. So don't believe those claims.

  • Tooth lightening: Chasing an unceasing bright smile can damage pulp and cause teeth to die, Maples says. Avoid one-hour laser or light therapy because it dehydrates the teeth. The best results come through bleaching with custom trays only available through your dentist.
  • Soft tooth brushes: Make sure you always choose soft bristles to avoid traumatizing your gums. Scrubbing with a medium or hard bristle brush can make the gums recede from the teeth, Maples says.
  • Gum examinations: Your dentist should provide a thorough periodontal exam at least once each year that includes "pocket" measurements using a probe around the cuff of each tooth. Periodontal disease is the top reason adults lose teeth.
  • Let 'em bleed: Don't let a little blood keep you from flossing. Bleeding is a natural response, Maples said, when you clean inflamed gums. The bleeding will subside as the bacteria load is cleaned up.
  • Sensitive teeth: Don't freak if a tooth develops cold sensitivity. This situation often heals itself. Toothaches stimulated by heat or biting pressure can mean you need a root canal.

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Plenty of free activities for kids are part of the Peachtree Corners Festival on Saturday and Sunday, including bubble fun, sand art and face painting. (Courtesy of Peachtree Corners Festival)

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

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