A bright, healthy smile is one of the first things others notice and that we remember. Unfortunately, with so many things we eat, drink, and do on a daily basis that can stain or discolor our teeth it’s often a constant battle. The good news is there are some easy steps you can take to prevent stains and keep your teeth looking as white as possible. Here are some of our top tips whether you’re just beginning or maintaining after whitening.
1. Regular Brushing and Flossing
It seems so simple, but the importance of regular brushing and flossing cannot be stressed enough. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, making sure to access all areas of your mouth. And don’t forget to floss—this helps to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Failure to floss can eventually result in gum disease and staining.
2. Watch What You Eat and Drink
Some foods and drinks have the ability to stain your teeth and it can be difficult to keep your smile bright if you enjoy drinking red wine, coffee or tea. If you do drink these beverages, try using a straw so that the liquid bypasses your front teeth or rinse your mouth with water after drinking them. Sugary snacks and acidic foods can also wear away at tooth enamel, causing a loss of shine on your teeth. Instead, choose snacks like apples, carrots or even some nuts since these will actually help to clean your teeth while encouraging saliva production.
3. Visit Your Teeth Whitening Dentist Regularly
One of the best ways to keep a bright smile is by visiting a teeth whitening dentist. Routine professional cleanings remove surface stains as well as tartar buildup that brushing can’t take care of. If you want an instantly brighter smile, your dentist can provide professional teeth whitening treatments which are much stronger and more effective than what you can buy in the shops. In Australia, most dental clinics offer whitening systems that are formulated to suit your particular circumstances—whether it’s a mild polish you want or a radical change.
4. Consider Professional Whitening Treatments
While at-home kits and whitening toothpaste can help to some extent, it doesn’t compare to the results you can get when you visit your teeth whitening dentist for professional treatment. Dentists use much stronger, safer bleaching agents so you can enjoy teeth that are many shades whiter after just one visit versus using other methods that require weeks or even months of treatment. Whether you choose in-office treatments or prefer custom-made trays for use at home, your dentist can help you make a decision on which option is best for your teeth.
5. Don’t Smoke
The nicotine and tar in tobacco can turn teeth yellow over time, and long-term smoking can turn them brown. In addition to discoloration, smoking also raises your risk of gum disease and mouth cancers—not to mention bad breath. If you really want a whiter, brighter smile, steer clear of smokes.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water during the day can help to wash away harmful bacteria and acids that are produced by the bacteria, it also helps to assist in saliva production needed to flush out acids and maintain a healthy mouth. If you live in Australia and drink tap water which is supplemented with fluoride, this will also aid in helping to strengthen your enamel and fighting off decay.
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