If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth, rest assured you are not alone.
Millions of people each year take work to ensure their pearly whites are indeed white, using a variety of methods from at home remedies to professional teeth whiting treatments. If you are wondering how to get whiter teeth or how to keep teeth white, follow these proven tips for whiter teeth at home.
Avoid Foods that Stain Teeth
One of most simple of measures in getting whiter teeth is avoiding things that stain teeth, including certain foods and beverages. The rule of thumb for what stains teeth is that if it is dark in color before consuming, it will most likely end up staining your teeth. Red wine and black tea are major culprits of foods that stain teeth while berries and red or dark-colored sauces are lesser known but still powerful.
Similarly, sweets, sports drinks, and colas can all cause stained teeth in the long-run. Knowing specifically what foods stain teeth can help you fight the ongoing battle against staining your teeth, and will keep your teeth whitening methods from wearing off quickly.
If you can’t stay away from foods that stain your teeth, be proactive in using a straw for your dark-colored drinks to keep them away from your teeth. Also, swallow promptly after chewing or drinking, so the food doesn’t settle. Finally, rinse or swish with water after drinking or eating to help get whiter teeth.
Add Crunchy Foods
High on the list of tips for whiter teeth is the addition of crunchy foods to your diet. Similar to your toothbrush, crunchy foods provide an abrasiveness that works to remove stains without the need for harsh chemicals that could hurt your tooth enamel. Foods like apples, carrots, and celery are great choices for a “natural” toothbrush.
Brush (and Floss) Regularly
A common sense answer to “how to get whiter teeth,” is utilizing regular dental hygiene. It is recommended that your take time to brush your teeth as soon as you wake up in the morning, and again right before heading to bed. It is also important to floss to ensure you are removing as much leftover food and bacteria as possible each day.
Don’t Skip Your Dental Appointment
While a healthy diet, regular brushing, and consistent flossing are helpful ways to whiten teeth, they are no substitute for regular visits with your dentist. Your dental provider is the only person who can tell you how clean your mouth truly is, no matter what you are using as ways to whiten teeth. Additionally, natural teeth whitening treatments fade over time, so it is necessary to see your dentist for cleanings and potential alternatives over time. Your dentist may also be able to answer specific questions you have about how to get your teeth whiter through methods other than at-home solutions.