Short new webisodes are to be targeted at members of the public considering a teeth whitening procedure.

The American Dental Association (ADA) is launching its Straight from the Mouth initiative, which is made up of three-to-five minute podcasts covering a range of oral health information.

These will be posted monthly and are available for download on iTunes and ADA.org.

Commenting on their introduction, California-based dentist Ruchi Nijar Sahota said: "We’re having a lot of fun with these but at the heart of each episode is sound clinical and scientific information to help people maintain their oral health."

The first Straight from the Mouth episode concentrates on overcoming dental anxiety, which has caused some people to neglect their teeth and gums.

Other topics covered include dental care for children and dental care while travelling abroad.

People thinking of having a teeth whitening procedure to brighten up their smile are encouraged to visit a cosmetic dentist.