Teeth Whitening is one of the most common procedures a cosmetic dentist performs. It can significantly improve the color of a person's teeth in one or two visits. The appearance of your teeth is one of the first things people notice when they meet you. It is important to keep your teeth looking their best to boost your confidence in the office or when out with friends. The good news is that the bleaching agents used to whiten teeth are significantly stronger these days. There are easy ways to remove common stains caused by coffee, red wine and the use of tobacco products.

Teeth whitening tricks for a brighter smile

1. Stay away from foods and drinks that are known to cause stains

There is a simple rule a person can use to determine if an item will stain their teeth. If it would stain a white t-shirt, it can certainly discolor your teeth as well. Well-known drinks with strong tannins include coffee, tea, colas, red wine and grape juice. Avoid sipping on these beverages and drink them quickly when you do have them. You can even drink from a straw to protect your teeth. Follow up by rinsing the mouth with water afterward.

2. Get professional teeth whitening

While many over-the-counter products can be used to whiten teeth, nothing compares to a professional whitening performed by a dentist. The bleaching agents in the teeth whiteners used by dentists are significantly stronger than what is found in the over-the-counter alternatives. They can make a person's teeth significantly whiter after a single session. Patients can expect their teeth to be about 10 shades whiter after each whitening session at a dentist’s office.

3. Consider getting veneers

Certain stains, like those caused by tooth decay or fluorosis, cannot be removed with bleaching agents. When this is the case, you can use veneers to hide the discoloration. These are thin, tooth-shaped coverings that attach to the front of a tooth. Veneers usually consist of porcelain or ceramics and look just like real teeth. You can also use veneers for other cosmetic issues like crooked teeth or gaps between teeth. If the entire tooth is badly discolored, a crown can be used instead.

4. Practice good oral hygiene

Taking proper care of teeth is a good way to ensure they look their best. Use a whitening toothpaste, especially one that contains baking soda or hydrogen peroxide, to remove any residue that could cause long-term stains.

5. Get regular dental cleanings

The dentist scrapes off tartar and polishes the teeth when a patient goes in for a dental cleaning. Tartar gives teeth a yellow tint, so taking it off and polishing makes teeth appear brighter. It also gives the dentist a chance to examine the patient's mouth and deal with any issues that are developing.

Ready for a whiter, brighter smile?

Follow these tips to keep your teeth clean and white. If you have moderate to severe stains, then call our office to learn about our teeth whitening procedures.

Are you considering teeth whitening in the Lindsay area? Get more information at https://lindsayfamilydental.com.

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