Teeth whitening is something that a lot of people don’t consider as a necessity. However, even for those who aren’t that conscious of or bothered by their stained teeth, they’ll be amazed at how liberating it feels once they get their teeth whitened. This article will show you the best way to get your teeth whitened.
The first step to maintaining white teeth is to see your dentist for a proper dental cleaning. Schedule an appointment with your dental hygienist at least every 6 months and book a future appointment each time you attend a cleaning. Though it is common to procrastinate on doing this, take advantage of the fact that most dental plans cover two cleanings per year.
Do not discount the basic teeth whitening power of baking soda. This product has been used by many people for many years as an easy inexpensive way to whiten teeth. It is important to mix the baking soda with salt to increase abrasion. Using this 2-3 times a week will quickly show results. Always brush normally after treating.
Use mouthwash sparingly as it can add to discoloration of the teeth. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol or other stain causing chemicals. These can also be absorbed into the soft tissues in the mouth under the tongue and into your system. If you can avoid them altogether, this is the better option.
Use natural tooth whiteners, such as baking soda, orange peels, or lemon peels. Mixing any of these with a little salt can make an excellent cheap tooth whitening product. Be sure to wash your mouth out thoroughly after using any of these methods, as the harsh acids can damage your teeth.
Use a tooth-whitening toothpaste, but don’t expect miracles on badly discolored teeth. Tooth whitening toothpaste does not bleach teeth, so it can’t remove existing stains. But it does help remove much of the plaque on your teeth, and can remove staining chemicals before they have a chance to discolor those pearly whites.
If you are a smoker, you are going to have a constant battle trying to keep your teeth white. If you are that worried about a white smile, you are going to need to quit or at least cut down in the amount that you are smoking. It will be a never ending battle if you continue to smoke heavily.
When trying to whiten your teeth, use toothpaste specifically made for teeth whitening. These toothpastes use peroxides that act as a bleaching agent for your teeth. Be sure to look at the amount of peroxide in the toothpaste, typically the concentration is between ten and twenty percent. Choose a product in the middle, and if your teeth tolerate the toothpaste (and you want more effective whitening), move up to a toothpaste with 20% peroxide.
To whiten your teeth on the go, try whitening strips. Available from many manufacturers in all price ranges, they really are one of the handiest ways of whitening your teeth while on the run. Apply the strips and wear while on your commute to work or out running errands with the kids and you’ll have white teeth without a lot of effort.
The chemicals that are used to help whiten your teeth can cause your gums and other soft tissues in your mouth to become irritated. These caustic chemicals can make your mouth feel like it is in a whole world of hurt. Make sure you talk to your doctor about any problems that you experience.
To make sure your smile stays white while drinking any stain causing beverages, drink water immediately after. By drinking water after drinking dark liquids, like tea or coffee, could help stop your teeth from being stained by pigments. Another idea is to use a straw when drinking dark beverages or use milk that does not have the fat removed in your coffee.
Eat crunchy vegetables like apples and celery to help remove surface stains on your teeth. Think of them as like a loofah for your smile. They exfoliate the teeth before the stains can get deeply attached to the surface of your teeth. Fibrous foods like spinach, lettuce and broccoli will also work.
Along with being high in sugar and/or high fructose corn syrup, wine and soda can stain your teeth. That makes these beverages a double hazard for your teeth. Avoid these beverages or rinse your mouth out with water after drinking soda or wine, better yet, brush your teeth if possible.
As the famous saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. This includes dentists. Apples are crisp and smooth when you bite into them and biting an apple actually cleans your teeth. Apples also contain properties that can kill most of the bacteria that sits on your teeth.
Whitening your teeth can do a lot for your self-image and self-confidence. These tips are easy to follow, and you will get the best results from them.
