A wedding is one of life's most significant and most joyous milestones. Having beautiful white teeth only adds to the happiness of the occasion and complements the existing wedding colors you've chosen. A bright smile beautifully accompanies popular summer wedding colors, like pastels and lighter earth tones, and it provides a subtle contrast and flash of sparkle to the more muted colors popular for fall weddings, such as burgundy and hunter green. Below are three teeth whitening tips dentists often give their patients who are planning weddings.

Teeth Whitening Tips for Your Summer or Fall Wedding

1. Use a Straw

As soon as you know your wedding is on the horizon, start using straws for drinking staining beverages. This will go a long way in keeping your teeth white for your big day. Coffee, tea, and wine contain tannins, a natural plant compound that adheres to and darkens the surface of the teeth. When you use a straw, you are routing the liquid past the visible front teeth and toward the back of the mouth.

2. Choose Teeth Whitening Snacks

When snacking, select fiber-rich fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery. These foods contain a natural, subtle abrasive that essentially scrubs the teeth clean as you chew, removing plaque buildup and lightening stains. Conversely, try to avoid condiments with high tannin content, such as barbecue and tomato sauces and balsamic vinegar. You should also avoid foods that are high in sugar, like ice cream and candy, as they can coat your teeth can cause a breakdown in enamel. 

3. Consult Your Dentist

Many dentists offer teeth whitening treatments that provide remarkable results. You can often obtain a lighter and brighter smile in very little time. Most involve a dentist applying a thin layer of whitening varnish to the teeth, then sealing it in—that's all it takes. Also, a dental exam can help you address any oral health issues that may be causing staining and dimming your smiles, such as ineffective brushing or flossing techniques, dental trauma, or certain health conditions or medications.

Make a dentist visit part of your preparations for your big day. Larry G. Hubbard, DDS, is a dentist who has been serving Statesboro, GA, Bulloch County, and the surrounding area for over 40 years. He offers comprehensive dental care, including exams, fillings and crowns, and root canals; he also performs Zoom!® teeth whitening procedures to help you get your smile wedding-ready. Call (912) 764-9891 or visit him online to schedule an appointment.