A person’s smile is perhaps one of the first things people notice. That’s why people can often get self-conscious about their teeth. And one of the prominent concerns people have about their teeth is discoloration. But luckily, there are ways to keep your teeth nice and white.
1. Avoid Food and Drinks That Can Stain Your Teeth
It may seem obvious, but avoiding foods and drinks with a lot of staining agents can go a long way to keeping your teeth white. Beverages like tea, coffee, and colas all have the potential to stain your teeth.
Foods like berries, beets, cherries, or those with a lot of spice are also contributors to staining. White, brown, and red wines also are notorious for eating away at your teeth’s natural color.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral habits is the best way to keep your teeth white. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help remove any stains that may be present and lurking in your mouth.
Brushing removes loose food and plaque, while flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to brush and floss after eating — this not only removes the food but also helps to get rid of the stains.
3. Avoid Excessive Tobacco Use
If you smoke or chew tobacco, especially if you are a heavy kind of smoker, you are likely to experience yellowing of your teeth over time. Tobacco has a staining agent called nicotine. Cigarette smoking is also a known cause of gum disease and other dental problems. People with tobacco-stained teeth are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. This is because gum disease promotes the growth of bacteria, which in turn creates an environment that’s conducive to staining.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
If you have any questions or concerns about your teeth, don’t wait until you notice a problem to do something about it. Visiting your dentist regularly is the best way to keep your smile bright, white, and healthy. They can detect any problems early and even help you prevent further dental issues. If a problem does arise, your dentist can also help, whether it means restoring the color in your teeth or treating gum disease.
5. Get a Teeth Whitening Treatment
If you’ve tried to keep your teeth as white as possible and are still unhappy with the results, there are things you can do about it. Professional teeth cleaning and bleaching can help get your teeth back to a pearly white state. This can be done in the dentist’s office or in an over-the-counter product. But it’s best to consult your dentist first before trying any DIY teeth whitening treatment.
Final Thoughts
While it may seem like you are powerless to prevent stains from forming on your teeth, you actually have a lot of control over the color of your pearly whites. With a few good habits and a little bit of care, you can have a bright and healthy smile.
Whiten your teeth with the help of Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry. We are a dentist in Danvers, MA, that aims to meet all your dental needs. We take the time to listen to our patient’s concerns and explain procedures so that our patients are well informed and comfortable. Book an appointment today!