Maintaining a White & Bright Smile
We frequently get patients into the Denture and Implant Centre who are wondering the best ways to keep their teeth white. Maintaining a bright and healthy smile is important for our self-confidence and can be easily achieved with small daily tasks.
With that being said some methods work better than others. There are many products available over the counter that offer short term solutions but often fade after a few weeks. For long-term results, your best bet is to work with dental healthcare professionals.
First, let’s take a look at some of the major causes of yellowing teeth.
Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?
Your lifestyle choices can have a huge impact on the color of your teeth. There are many factors that can slowly turn your teeth yellow or brown over time.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Drinking coffee or tea on a daily basis
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- These drinks have an ingredient called tannins which cause colors to stick. They’re also acidic, which can weaken the enamel on your teeth and allow the stains to set in.
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- Smoking
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- Tobacco products are harmful to your entire body and are a significant contributor to yellowing teeth. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes are absorbed by the pores in your teeth which can cause them to stain.
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- Poor eating habits
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- If you’re frequently consuming foods that are high in sugar, it can weaken the enamel on your teeth — which may allow stains to set in deeper. Try to avoid highly-processed and sugar-rich foods like candy or energy drinks.
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- Plaque and tartar
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- Failing to brush your teeth on a regular basis allows plaque and tartar to build up. These bacterial deposits can affect the color of your teeth and make them deteriorate faster.
How Can I Keep My Teeth White For As Long As Possible?
There are a few simple ways to maintain the color of your teeth and it all starts with good daily oral hygiene habits.
- Brushing your teeth properly
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- Ideally, you should be brushing your teeth 2 or 3 times per day. Regular brushing prevents buildups of bacteria and removes stains before they have a chance to set in deeply.
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- Flossing regularly
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- Flossing is often overlooked by many patients. In many ways, it’s equally as important as brushing. Bacteria can build up between your teeth which are missed by brushing only.
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- Maintain a healthy diet
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- Diet is a key part of oral health. Avoid frequently eating sugar-rich foods and consuming acidic drinks like tea and coffee. Everything in moderation!
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- Stop smoking
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- Smoking is one of the primary causes of browning and yellowing teeth. Quitting smoking will significantly slow the yellowing of your teeth.
Are You Interested in Whiter Teeth?
At The Denture and Implant Centre, we have several options for professional teeth whitening services. When combined with a healthy diet and good oral health habits, we can help restore your simile to its previous brilliance.
Book your teeth whitening appointment today!
