Teeth whitening can brighten your smile in no time at all, but it isn’t always easy to maintain those results. Since a long list of foods and habits can stain your teeth, it is essential to take a close look at your daily routine. Here are three ways to keep your smile clean and bright. 

Tips for Whiter Teeth

1. Avoid Highly Pigmented Foods

Certain foods contain high levels of pigment that can easily stain dental enamel. Since enamel is porous, foods like tomato sauce, coffee, red wine, and even chocolate can discolor your smile. When you eat, pay attention to the color of the foods you are enjoying, and try to stay away from any foods that contain high levels of dye. As a general rule of thumb, try to stick with natural, unprocessed foods that are neutral in color. Examples include apples, roasted chicken, whole wheat bread, and bananas. 

2. Brush With Baking Soda  

Baking soda is a mild abrasive, which helps to polish away stains. Additionally, baking soda can absorb odors and help to remove plaque. Consider brushing a few times a week with a paste composed of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide acts as a natural teeth whitening agent, while the baking soda polishes away surface stains. A popular trend recently has been to use charcoal-based toothpaste. Avoid these, as the charcoal is highly abrasive and can destroy enamel and do significant damage to the overall health of your teeth.

3. Use Mouthwash

After you brush and floss your teeth, consider using a therapeutic mouthwash designed for teeth whitening. Avoid generic brands, as they have a high alcohol content that can cause pain, discomfort, and can irritate the skin inside your mouth. Look for brands that have a low alcohol content and contain natural chemicals that assist in teeth whitening. Some mouthwashes contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps to lift away stains and remove bacteria that can cause bad breath. If you notice that your teeth are becoming less white, reach out to your family dentist for a consultation.

Remember, if you are struggling to whiten your teeth at home, the dentists at Bream Family Dental Care can help with professional teeth whitening treatments. With a commitment to convenient, professional whitening services like Opalescence Go® Tooth Whitening, they can help you to remove years of staining and discoloration from your teeth. For a free cosmetic or general consultation, send their office a message online or give their team a call at (540) 949-7246.