Feeling self-conscious about your smile? Your teeth are one of the first things that people notice, and a bright, healthy smile can be a huge confidence booster. As we age, the enamel on our teeth becomes thinner and more transparent, exposing the darker layer of dentin beneath it. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to keep your teeth sparkling white.
1. Change your eating and drinking habits
Drinking tea, coffee, red wine, and soda stains your teeth, so limiting your consumption of these types of beverages can help to prevent yellowing. If you can’t kick the habit completely, try to brush your teeth soon after you finish your drink to minimise the effects on the colour of your teeth. Smoking and chewing tobacco also have a discolouring effect, so giving up these habits is beneficial to both your smile and your overall health. Try to avoid processed foods and drinks that are high in simple sugars and may thin tooth enamel.
2. Maintain a healthy brushing routine
Brushing and flossing soon after you eat or drink is the best way to prevent plaque build-up on your teeth, which can cause them to look yellow. Replace your toothbrush or change the head of your electric toothbrush at least every two to three months (sooner if the bristles are frayed) and use a tongue scraper once a day to remove any build-up of bacteria on your tongue.
3. Eat nature’s tooth whitening treats
Some types of foods have been proven to naturally whiten teeth. Strawberries and apples not only taste delicious, they also contain high concentrations of malic acid that acts as a natural astringent to remove surface discolouration. Cheese contains minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that help keep teeth strong, and the lactic acid it contains can also protect against tooth decay. Hard cheeses are best for whitening because they help to remove food particles from your teeth. Other tasty tooth whitening treats include raw broccoli, pineapple, celery, and oranges.
4. Brush with baking soda
Baking soda has natural whitening properties and is a popular ingredient in a lot of commercial toothpaste. Many people mix it with water and use the paste a few times a week to help scrub away surface stains. However, baking soda is abrasive and overuse can damage tooth enamel and cause tooth sensitivity. If you have concerns about using baking soda on your teeth, talk to your dentist before adding it to your whitening routine.
5. Book a professional whitening treatment
Tooth whitening treatment from a dentist is a simple and safe cosmetic procedure that can give you effective, long-lasting results. Blyton Dental provides teeth whitening treatment at a cost equivalent to a Band 3 NHS charge. Book your free consultation today.
For more information about tooth whitening or other cosmetic procedures at Blyton Dental, contact one of our helpful team members today.