There is nothing that gives one confidence more than a good smile, and this can be achieved by regular oral hygiene. Having healthy teeth also keeps one from being embarrassed in social situations. Teeth discoloration can also cause further complications, including the spread of bacterial infections such as gum disease, tooth decay, or even worse if not addressed promptly. If you are concerned about the appearance of your teeth, then there are some simple things that you should consider doing to help maintain their whiteness and brightness.
1. Practice Regular Brushing and Flossing
First off, we need to point out that brushing and flossing is something that everyone should do regularly. This helps remove plaque, which acts like an adhesive and allows bacteria to build up on our teeth. If left untreated, it will lead to tooth decay and eventually cavities.
2. Look at Your Diet
It may seem obvious, but foods high in sugar like candy, soda, chocolate, and others should be avoided. They cause plaque buildup and increase the risk of cavities forming. In addition, they can weaken enamel and make it easy for stains to show through. Foods with low pH levels like citrus fruits can also cause staining over time, so always avoid eating them when possible.
3. Avoid Tobacco Use
Smoking has been proven to stain both enamel and dentin, making it harder for the body to repair damaged areas within the mouth. If you smoke, then cut down on how often you consume tobacco products and try to quit entirely. Using nicotine replacement therapies like patches can help reduce cravings associated with smoking.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular checkups are very important for maintaining healthy dental conditions. At each visit, the dentist will assess your overall oral health and provide any needed treatments and services. It is recommended that at least every six months, you visit the dentist for cleaning and a checkup.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
Water aids in removing plaque by rinsing away food particles along with providing a clean environment for bacteria to live and multiply. It’s important to drink water soon after eating to prevent tooth decay by washing away harmful acids. Make sure that you don’t just drink plain tap water either, opt for filtered versions and add lemon juice or other flavored additives to give it flavor.
6. Buy At-Home Whitening Kit
The main contents of these kits include bleaching solutions of varying strengths like hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, among others. The kit includes instructions on the uses and dosages of each product as well as safety precautions. For optimum results, the best thing to do is use only the amount of product directed by the manufacturer.
7. Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain high amounts of Vitamin C. This vitamin inhibits the ability of bacteria to form biofilms. Biofilms are bacterial cells stuck together while growing on surfaces inside the mouth. As long as this structure can grow, it increases the risk of tooth decay due to its effect on lactic acid production. Not only does Vitamin C inhibit the growth of biofilm, but it has also been shown to bleach and lighten teeth.
8. Invest in a High-Quality Toothbrush
A good quality toothbrush can make all the difference between having healthy-looking teeth and ones that look worn out and discolored. Investing in one that fits comfortably in your hand and provides enough pressure to effectively remove plaque is highly recommended. Always clean your brushes regularly to keep them in top shape and replace them if they start to fall apart.