Bright, white teeth aren’t only a cosmetic concern. They also signal that a person has good oral health, free of problems like decay and gum disease. Along with visiting your dentist for regular teeth cleanings, here are some other steps you can take to preserve the look of your teeth. 

How Can I Keep My Smile Bright?

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Your dentist is an integral component when it comes to oral health, but even the best dentist can’t do much if you don’t brush and floss at home. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes at a time using fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should be done once a day to remove plaque and bacteria from between teeth, where your brush won’t be able to reach. 

2. Avoid Certain Beverages

Red wine, coffee, and tea are all notorious for staining teeth. While you don’t have to abstain from them forever, they should be drunk in moderation. Drinking plenty of water can also help rinse your teeth and prevent liquids from clinging to the enamel and causing stains. 

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Certain foods have natural tooth-scrubbing abilities. This includes fibrous fruits and vegetables, as well as hard cheeses and nuts. Eating foods rich in calcium also boosts the strength of tooth enamel from the inside, which decreases your risk of cavities. 

4. Stop Smoking

The tar and nicotine in cigarettes cause teeth to take on a brown or yellow hue over time. This is just one of the many adverse health effects caused by cigarettes, along with an increased risk of oral cancer. If you currently smoke, ask your doctor about ways to quit. Many people use nicotine patches, lozenges, and gum to wean themselves off nicotine until they can leave for good. 

If stains have already developed on your teeth, whitening might be the solution. In White Sulphur Springs, WV, Sizemore Family Dentistry provides patients a convenient and effective method for improving their smiles. An impression will be taken of your teeth during the exam, which is then used to create customized trays. When your tray is ready, you’ll receive the trays along with a customized teeth whitening solution. Visit the website for more information or call (304) 536-3304 to schedule an appointment.