A straight, white smile is a sign of good health and often plays a role in your overall attractiveness. The good news is, you needn't spend hundreds of dollars on professional teeth cleanings. You can get whiter teeth at home using a few easy tricks. Dr. David K. Skeels, a dentist in Rochester, NY, helps patients improve their smile with professional services and by offering expert tips.

Here are a couple surprising ways this dentist says you can whiten your teeth at home:

• Eat Fruits & Veggies: While eating a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables daily is great for your health, it can also improve the color of your teeth. Apples, carrots, nuts, and cauliflower, with their crisp, textured surfaces, scrape away plaque and stains as you chew. Soft or acidic fruits, such as oranges, aren't strong enough to clean your teeth. The acid in their juices can also wear down your enamel, so steer clear of them.

• Replace Your Toothbrush: The bristles on an old toothbrush are often misshapen or worn out, making it less effective at cleaning your teeth. Replace your brush once every three months or whenever you notice soft bristles. 

By combining at-home tricks with professional whitening performed by a dentist, your teeth will appear bright and healthy. Dr. David K. Skeels has years of experience with tooth extractions, root canals, implants, and teeth whitening. His office also has a relaxed ambience, which will make your free initial consultation a breeze. For more information, visit his website or call (585) 467-7000 today.