Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Top Ten Teeth Whitening Tips

Teeth Whitening
Everyone wants a gorgeous smile and teeth whitening is an excellent way to get one.  Unfortunately, it is easy for teeth to become yellow and stained over time.  Things like coffee can permanently discolor teeth unless they are whitened to bring back their original luster.
Our dental practice helps to create beautiful smiles.  There are things you can do at home and the dentist’s office to get whiter and brighter teeth.  Here are our top ten tips.
1.       Use whitening strips.  You can purchase whitening strips to use at home.  Make sure they are approved by the American Dental Association.  This is an affordable way to treat your teeth in between trips to the dentist.
2.       Brush with whitening toothpaste. If you are looking for the simplest way to incorporate teeth whitening into your routine, this is it.  Simply replace your toothpaste with one that has whitening agents.
3.       Make a mouth rinse with hydrogen peroxide.  The American Dental Association has approved this treatment for at home teeth whitening.  Simply make a mixture that is half water and half hydrogen peroxide.  After it starts bubbling swish it around inside of your mouth then spit out.  Make sure to brush your teeth afterwards.  The only downside is it won’t taste that great.
4.       Baking soda.  You can place baking soda onto your toothbrush and brush gently.  Leave it on your teeth for a minute before rinsing.  You have to be careful with baking soda because it is harsh and could erode the enamel on your teeth.  A safer alternative is to brush with a commercial toothpaste made with baking soda.
5.       Laser teeth whitening.  The most effective way to whiten teeth is to have a laser treatment completed at the dentist office.  This is safer than many at home treatments because it wont erode the enamel on your teeth.
6.       Stop smoking.  Cigarette smoke will stain your teeth.  Stop smoking to avoid discoloration.
7.       Avoid tannins.  Drinks with tannins will stain your teeth. This includes red wine, coffee, soda, and tea.
8.       Eat strawberries.  Strawberries contain a natural astringent that will help to lift stains.  Rub a strawberry over your teeth and leave it for a minute before drinking water.
9.       Eat cheese.  Hard cheese helps to produce saliva which removes the bacteria that causes stains.
10.   Visit the dentist.  You should schedule a teeth cleaning appointment for twice a year.  The dentist can do a thorough teeth cleaning and remove plaque from your teeth.
A bright white smile can increase your self-confidence and make you look younger. A trip to the dentist can include a teeth whitening procedure that is completed in less than an hour.  You can brighten your smile by several shades in one sitting, making professional whitening the fastest way to improve your smile.  Once your treatment has been completed make sure to avoid drinking things that can stain your teeth.  If you absolutely cannot cut out the hourly cup of coffee, consider drinking it through a straw to keep the coffee from directly touching your front teeth. 

Schedule your appointment today and brighten your world.