21 Feb Tips On Whitening Your Teeth
We are a leading dental care practice in Prescott, Arizona. We’re committed to providing our patients with the best care in a fun, pleasant environment. This month, we’re offering some tips and information about whitening your teeth.
Avoid staining in the first place
Be aware that red wine, coffee, tea, berries and juices, and other foods that can leave stains. If it can stain a white Tshirt, it can stain your teeth. Rinse with water after eating or drinking these. Obviously, you should avoid smoking or using tobacco products since these leave stains.
Snack Smart
Some of the following foods can help keep your teeth clean and sparkling: sugarless gum, carrots, celery or apples. Eating these triggers lots of saliva which neutralizes the acid in your mouth. The naturally cleansing action of chewing can help remove very mild, temporary surface stains and help maintain your white smile.
Professional whitening
The most effective whitening products are the custom whitening that is performed / dispensed by your dentist. The treatment can be completed in just over an hour in our office, and is an excellent option for discolored, stained or aging teeth.
At-home options
You can remove surface stains at home using over-the-counter whitening strips. These strips use a mild peroxide-based whitening gel. Read the package directions carefully and be aware that some users experience tooth sensitivity after using these types of products. Whitening toothpastes can help too and many are available over-the-counter. They use a mild abrasive or polishing agent to remove stains. These won’t change the actual color of teeth, however.
Keep ’em white and healthy
Occasional whitening touch-ups maintain that initial white you’ve achieved. Remember, daily flossing and brushing twice a day is a must and see your dentist regularly.
Image used under creative commons licence – commercial use (02/21/2014) Rupert Taylor-Price (Flickr)