Have you started hiding your once-beautiful smile when taking photos or surrounded by friends? You’re not alone. According to a survey by OnePoll, three in five people are unhappy with their smiles.
With teeth whitening in Lexington, KY, you don’t have to feel self-conscious! Instead, you can smile with renewed confidence.
Don’t forget to talk to your Lexington dentist about post-whitening care. Read on for our tips to maintain white teeth!
Follow an Oral Hygiene Routine
The best way to extend teeth whitening longevity is to follow an oral hygiene routine. Following proper oral health care habits can keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Otherwise, bacteria, food particles, and saliva can mix to form plaque. Plaque is the clear, tacky substance that sticks to our teeth. If you don’t brush it away, it can cause discoloration and increase your risk of tooth decay.
The acids in plaque can erode your protective tooth enamel. As your enamel weakens, your risk of cavities will increase. According to Healthline, other risk factors include:
- Acid reflux disease
- Consuming sugary or acidic foods/beverages
- Not getting enough fluoride
- Not brushing and flossing daily
- Eating disorders
- Dry mouth
Visit your dentist twice a year for routine check-ups. They can detect early signs of tooth decay to ensure you begin immediate treatment.
In the meantime, brush your teeth twice daily to remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque. Floss before bed to remove particles from between your teeth.
Don’t neglect your back teeth. Cavities are more likely to develop on teeth with grooves and openings that trap food particles.
Brushing and flossing will reduce plaque buildup, minimizing your risk of decay and discoloration.
Post-Whitening Care Tools
Talk to your Garden Springs dentist about the oral hygiene tools you use at home. They can make recommendations to ensure you maintain white teeth.
Switch your toothbrush out every three months (or when the bristles look worn down). Consider using an electric brush to remove food particles and bacteria more thoroughly. Choose a smaller brush head that can reach back teeth.
Use tooth-whitening toothpaste for post-whitening care. The right brush and toothpaste can remove surface stains from your teeth. You can keep discoloration from setting in.
Look for toothpaste that has ingredients like baking soda. Baking soda contains natural whitening properties. It’s mildly abrasive, making it effective at scrubbing surface stains.
Baking soda is ideal for maintaining fresh breath and creating an alkaline environment. This can keep bacteria from growing in the future.
Your dentist may recommend teeth whitening products you can use between dental visits. For example, you can use teeth whitening trays to minimize discoloration.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations to avoid wasting time and money. Many over-the-counter products aren’t effective. Their recommendations will ensure you make choices that align with your oral health care goals.
Adjust Your Diet to Maintain White Teeth
As you follow these teeth-whitening tips, assess your diet. The foods and beverages you consume can cause discoloration. The best way to extend your teeth whitening longevity is to avoid future stains.
Foods and beverages that can cause discoloration include:
- Soy sauce
- Curry
- Balsamic vinegar
- Tomatoes
- Tea
- Coffee
- Wine
- Berries
- Grapes
- Beets
- Candy
- Carbonated beverages (soda, sports drinks, seltzers)
Try to avoid consuming these foods and beverages excessively. Otherwise, drink water immediately after meals. Water will rinse away color dyes and sugars on your teeth.
Choose foods and vegetables that keep your teeth clean. For example, tart foods (like oranges and green apples) can boost saliva production. Saliva naturally washes away food debris that may otherwise stain your teeth.
The calcium in dairy products like cheese and yogurt can strengthen your teeth and bones. They decrease tooth decay and staining by boosting your mouth’s pH level. The good, probiotic bacteria in yogurt can overpower harmful bacteria.
According to ResearchGate, a protein found in pineapple called bromelain can remove surface stains and plaque. Consider snacking on pineapple after consuming meals containing tomatoes or other tooth-staining ingredients.
If you drink iced coffee or soda, use a straw. Sipping through a straw will keep these beverages from coming in contact with your teeth.
Avoid Smoking
Cigarettes and tobacco products can stain your teeth. Smoking can cause yellowing and bad breath. Other risks include dulled tasting abilities, oral cancer, and slower healing from dental procedures.
Try to quit smoking. Quitting will improve the appearance of your teeth and overall oral health. Otherwise, brush your teeth immediately afterward to minimize staining.
Seek Lexington Dental Care
Schedule a routine checkup at your Lexington dentist’s office every six months. Routine appointments allow your dentist to assess your oral health. They may spot signs of cavities, gum disease, or other issues before they progress.
Regular appointments allow your dentist to make personalized recommendations based on your needs and goals. They can help you make adjustments to your at-home oral hygiene routine. For example, they may recognize you’re struggling to brush your back teeth before recommending a better brush.
They may recommend another teeth-whitening procedure, such as:
- Whitening treatments
- Veneers
- Crowns
Veneers are small, porcelain shells cemented over the surface of an existing tooth. They can conceal discoloration to improve your appearance. They’re strong, durable, and customizable.
Crowns are caps that can conceal an entire tooth. They can conceal a damaged, severely stained, or broken tooth. They’ll protect your teeth from additional damage, improve functionality, and enhance your appearance.
Rely on their expertise to develop a personalized teeth whitening treatment plan. Their smile makeover services can help you achieve a bright, beautiful smile. Whitening your teeth can improve your oral health, reducing your need for more expensive procedures.
Choose Teeth Whitening in Lexington, KY
Don’t let discolored teeth affect your self-confidence. Instead, maintain the results from your teeth whitening in Lexington, KY. Use these tips to keep your smile beautiful and bright!
Garden Springs Dental is your premiere destination for family dental care. Our friendly staff will take the time to understand your needs and preferences.
Rely on our advanced techniques, range of services, and personalized care. Contact us now to schedule an appointment to brighten your smile!
