Most of us would like to have a bright, “white” smile—filled with teeth that would make a Hollywood actor proud. Studies show that up to 52 percent of people are dissatisfied with the color of their teeth.     1     Globally, rows of pearl-white teeth shine out from magazines and cinema screens.

It is hardly surprising, then, that we tend to think that white teeth are not only attractive but also healthy. However, new studies have revealed that pearly teeth don’t always mean great oral health.

    2     It can be based on our genes and ages. As you get older, your teeth often become yellower as the enamel（牙釉质）—the hard white outer layer of teeth—begins to wear away. Eating, drinking, smoking and taking certain medications might also discolor your teeth. These stains don’t actually indicate a problem with dental health. You can have pearl-white teeth and still have cavities（龋齿的洞）. Likewise, you can have perfectly healthy teeth that are yellowish or even brownish.     3    

There is even one type of stain that some researchers believe might protect against tooth decay. This is the “black stain” which you sometimes see along teeth at the edges of the gum line（牙龈线）. It can look like a series of dark dots. While the cause of the black stain has been in debate for more than a century, some studies have found that children with the stain are less likely to have tooth decay. It’s thought that some microbes in the stain might be somehow protective.

So what if you still want pearl-white teeth, regardless of what they say about your health? There is a wide range of products you can use. Some kinds of toothpaste promise a whitening effect. Most of them contain substances that rub stains off your teeth. Others add some blueish substances to your yellowish teeth, resulting in a bright white color.     4    

Of course, unless you continue using the product or receiving the whitening treatment, the whiteness will only last for as long as you avoid the foods and drinks that cause the stains in the first place. But now you know that even without that Hollywood white smile, it doesn’t mean you don’t have healthy teeth.

【推荐2】Take a look at your fingers. Would you believe me if I told you that the length of your fingers in relation to one another can predict your personality? I know that it sounds like one of those silly tests you see on Facebook, but I have to admit that it was spot-on for me.

Look at your three middle fingers of your left hand. Is your index finger (食指) longer than your ring finger? Is your ring finger longer than your index finger? Or are the two the same length?

Category 1: A longer ring finger. If your ring finger is longer than your index finger, research shows that you’re likely a charming type, and you can probably talk yourself out of any situation. Others often find this personality type irresistible and will go to great lengths to help you. You’re more likely to take risks, and you’re good at problem-solving. People in this category make great engineers, soldiers and crossword-puzzle solvers.

Category 2: A longer index finger. If your index finger is longer than your ring finger, chances are you are full of confidence — possibly even to the point of being over-confident and too proud. You are not necessarily introverted, but you do enjoy time to yourself especially when you’re trying to complete a project. You are a determined go-getter who can make things happen, but you may be shy when it comes to taking the first step in building up a friendship. You are also probably happy with what you have, but you’re always wishing for more.

Category 3: The two are the same length. If your index finger and ring finger are roughly the same length, you are likely to avoid conflict at all costs and seek to keep the peace in your relationships. You are well-organized, faithful and sympathetic. But deep down under all of that caring and peace-loving, you also have a fiery core (暴躁的本质) and can lash out unexpectedly when you’re pushed too far.

How well did these descriptions match your personality? I was surprised at the accuracy in my case.

【推荐3】How to Protect Yourself from the Sun

It can be fun to get out and enjoy sunshine, and the vitamin D provided by the sun can help with your overall health.     1     Overexposure to the sun can cause wrinkles, sunburn, and skin damage. Too much sun can also increase your risk for skin cancer. A quality sunscreen can help protect you from the sun. In addition to this, your clothing choices can keep you from being too exposed. You should also work on avoiding the sun during daylight hours as much as you can.

Choose a sunscreen with a safe SPF. You should wear sunscreen each time you go out during the day, even when it’s overcast. Make sure you select a sunscreen with a strong enough sun protection factor (SPF) to protect you from UV rays.

Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before leaving your home. Do this each time you leave your house during the daytime when the sun is out.     2     You should also make the effort to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours so it stays effective. Apply the correct amount. You need at least 45 milliliters (1.5 fl oz) of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin on your body.

Wear sunglasses.       3     Make sure to check the label of a pair of sunglasses before you buy it. Any sunglasses you wear should block 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB light. Wear a hat with at least a 3-inch brim. This will cover areas like your scalp, where it is difficult to safely apply sunscreen.     4     You should go for long-sleeved shirts and longer pants to protect yourself from the sun.

Seek shade between 10 am and 4 pm.       5     You’re most likely to get skin damage during this time of day. If you’re going to be out in the sun, seek shade from trees, patios, and other objects whenever possible.