Do you wish you had brighter teeth every time you smile in the mirror? Even if you brush daily, they can gradually turn duller and more yellow as you age. While this is a natural occurrence, it doesn’t mean you have to settle for living with a smile you aren’t proud of. Keep reading to learn five tips on how to get whiter teeth!
#1: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
How often do you brush your teeth? Do you floss once a day? One of the simplest ways to allow your teeth to discolor is by falling off track with your at-home oral hygiene. If you want to show off a brighter smile, you’ll need to implement a stricter cleaning routine. This should include brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing daily (or after every meal), and rinsing with mouthwash often to remove stain-causing particles from your mouth.
#2: Avoid Dark-Pigmented Meals & Drinks
Have you ever seen what happens when a perfectly white T-shirt comes into contact with tomato sauce? The same thing occurs when your teeth are frequently exposed to dark-colored foods and beverages. Since dark-pigmented meals and drinks can stain your smile, it’s a good idea to minimize how often you indulge in these treats. If you do enjoy them regularly, try to at least rinse your mouth out with water and brush your teeth to avoid dental discoloration.
#3: Strengthen Your Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel that’s been weakened or eroded may gradually appear grayish over time, as the dentin underneath may become more exposed. Although this layer won’t grow back, you can still strengthen it with proper care. Make sure to eat plenty of foods consisting of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk. Consider using fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash as well to fortify your enamel and restore the natural shine of your teeth.
#4: Be Cautious with Store-Bought Whiteners
While some over-the-counter whiteners can have a mildly effective impact on your teeth, many of them typically provide lackluster results. Not to mention, these products can also damage your enamel and cause tooth sensitivity if not specifically tailored to your smile. For instance, whitening toothpaste may get rid of surface stains, but it can also wear your teeth down with abrasive agents.
#5: Visit Your Dentist for Treatments
Your dentist can provide the safest and most effective treatments to improve your pearly whites. They can offer cosmetic dental procedures like professional teeth whitening to enhance your smile in as little as a single appointment! This option is also more cost-effective, as it provides impressive results while keeping your teeth and gums safe.
Feel free to speak with your dentist about cosmetic dentistry if you wish to have a whiter smile. They’ll be more than happy to assess your oral health and determine which treatment option is best for you!
About the Author
Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil earned her dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. She’s also a member of several organizations such as the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. She offers a wide range of high-quality and comprehensive services, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers. If you want to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call 817-738-3368.