Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. It changes your look. It affects your confidence. Frankly, it’s one of the most important parts of your physical appearance. Therefore, it’s no surprise that many people ask their dentist how they can get a brighter, whiter smile.
Over-the-counter methods like whitening toothpaste and strips can help remove surface stains on your teeth. However, there is no substitute for a professional whitening treatment at your dentist’s office. There, your teeth can be cleaned and bleached for beautiful results… but what happens after that? Here are a few tips to help you maintain that pearly white grin:
Use an Electric Toothbrush
Proper oral hygiene is essential if you want your teeth to be beautiful (and healthy). However, evidence suggests that not all toothbrushes are created equal. A review of studies from Oral Health Group revealed that electric-powered toothbrushes actually remove 21% more plaque than traditional brushes. This tells us that when it comes to daily brushing, electric is the way to go!
Of course, there’s no need to panic if you don’t have an electric toothbrush. Manual brushes are still a very useful tool for removing plaque and preventing gum disease. No matter the brush, make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day!
Avoid Foods that Stain Teeth
Tooth discoloration occurs when stain particles build up in the protein around your teeth. Where do those particles come from? The food and drink you consume every day. If you want to keep your teeth looking nice after teeth whitening, you might want to refrain from the most stain-worthy treats:
- Red wine
- Coffee and Tea
- Dark soda
- Tomato sauces
- Dark fruits (like blueberries, blackberries, and cherries)
Not willing to give up your morning coffee or spaghetti pomodoro? That’s ok; just make sure you add some fibrous fruits and veggies to your diet! Rough foods like apples and carrots scrub the surface of your teeth as you chew, helping to wipe stains away.
Use a Straw
There is a way to enjoy your favorite beverages and keep your smile bright: a straw. When you drink from a straw, you expose your teeth to less liquid than you would sipping directly from a cup. So, the next time someone offers you a black coffee or dark herbal tea, simply grab a straw!>
Floss
Brushing your teeth regularly is a great way to prevent surface stains… everywhere the bristles can reach. Liquids and other staining particles can move pretty freely around your mouth, and that means they can nestle in between each of your teeth. The only way to tackle these stains is with regular flossing.
We know that flossing isn’t popular; in fact, only 30% of people say they floss every day! But if you want your smile to remain clean, bright, and beautiful, you absolutely have to clean in between those chompers! Grab some floss and add an extra minute to your oral hygiene routine. We promise it’s worth it.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Finally, one of the best ways to keep your white smile looking bright is by visiting your dentist in Oak Park, IL. The professional cleanings you get twice each year will help maintain that gleaming smile, and your dentist can give you valuable advice for making your teeth even healthier.
Here at Oak Park Dental Group, our goal is to rejuvenate your smile, helping you both look and feel your best. Whether you’re seeking comprehensive dental care or specialized services in Oak Park, IL , we’re here to serve you. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call us today! Our team is looking forward to seeing you in our office!