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We are constantly working to improve ourselves— skin care, hair care, mental health, we invest in them all because we know how important it is to look and feel our best. But there’s one part of self-care that often gets overlooked and that is, oral health. A bright, healthy smile can really boost your confidence and well-being. So why not make teeth whitening a priority in your self-care routine?
Here's what you can do to not only keep your smile healthy but make sure your pearly whites stay sparkling and bright!
1. Start with Good Oral Hygiene at Home
The first step is to establish a foundation of good oral hygiene. It helps to lay the groundwork for effective whitening and also ensures that your results are long-lasting.
Brush your teeth twice a day
The importance of brushing twice a day cannot be stressed enough. Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential for protecting against plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque can cause cavities, gum disease and make teeth look dull if they are not removed regularly.
It is advised to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush for at least two minutes, reaching all areas of your mouth. Powered toothbrushes are often preferred as they reduce plaque more effectively than a manual toothbrush. In fact, research has shown that powered toothbrushes can reduce plaque by 21% after three months of regular use.
Remember to floss daily
Brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth but it doesn’t reach the spaces in between. Flossing helps clean in between the teeth, especially when food and plaque gets trapped. Therefore, regular flossing is a simple but effective way to prevent stains and decay.
2. Choose the Right Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpastes can be a valuable addition to your oral care routine, especially when dealing with surface stains. These products usually contain mild abrasives, such as silica, that help scrub away stains that sit on the outermost layer of teeth, making them look cleaner and brighter.
Look for the ADA seal
Check to see if your whitening toothpaste has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates that the toothpaste has been tested and is proven safe for regular use.
Be careful not to overuse your whitening toothpaste
It is important to use teeth whitening toothpastes with care. Yes, they are effective but overuse can wear down your enamel due to the abrasive agents. Consider using them as part of a balanced routine, making sure to alternate with a regular fluoride toothpaste, especially if you have sensitive teeth.
3. Utilise At-Home Whitening Kits
Home teeth whitening has become increasingly popular, with a variety of teeth whitening kits and products now available for those looking to brighten their smile. At-home whitening kits are a step up from whitening toothpastes, providing a more intensive whitening treatment right at home. These kits typically include a whitening gel and trays that fit over your teeth.
Use Professional Whitening Kits Instead of Over-The Counter Whitening Kits
Whitening kits can be obtained either from a dentist or over-the counter. Home teeth whitening has become increasingly popular, with a variety of teeth whitening kits and products now available for those looking to brighten their smile. Each type has recommended guidelines for how to use the product, so make sure you follow the instructions as they can differ from product to product.
Both can be effective when used properly but it is often beneficial to opt for professional whitening kit from your dentist. Find out why here!
Monitor Sensitivity
If you experience increased sensitivity, it’s a good idea to take a break from whitening treatments or consult your dentist for advice.
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4. Limit Foods and Drinks that Cause Stains
Certain foods and drinks are notorious for staining teeth, with coffee, tea and red wine being the common culprits. But even some fruits and vegetables like beets can lead to discolouration over time. Here is how you can minimise their impact.
Rinse After Eating
If you enjoy having teeth-staining food and drinks on a regular basis, wash your mouth with water afterward. It is as easy as it sounds; it helps remove pigments before these settle within your enamel.
Use a Straw
Use a straw when drinking known stain-causing beverages. This helps to reduce the amount of liquid that comes into direct contact with teeth, which means there is less chance of teeth staining.
Choose Teeth-Friendly Foods
Incorporating certain foods into your diet can also help maintain a brighter smile. Examples include crunchy fruits (apples), vegetables (celery) and root crops (carrots). They act like natural toothbrushes to help scrub away plaque and food particles from your teeth as you chew.
5. Stop Smoking and Tobacco Use
The dangers of smoking are widely known to all. It not only affects your lungs and heart but also the the teeth and gums, causing an increased risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking should be an essential part of your oral care routine.
Tobacco Stains
Tobacco can cause tough stains that turns your teeth a dark colour, sometimes even black. These stains are especially difficult to get rid of hence it may prove hard for whitening methods to work effectively. As research continues to reveal more about the damage tobacco does, it's clear that smoking can seriously hinder your efforts to maintain a bright, healthy smile.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular professional cleanings by your dentist are important because they can remove tartar and deep stains that at-home oral care or products might miss.
Professional Cleanings
At-home whitening treatments are great for surface stains but they can't get rid of tartar and deep stubborn stains. Regular cleanings help remove them, therefore making your teeth look more white and healthier too.
Professional Advice
Your dentist is also your go-to for personalised advice. They will be able to recommend the best whitening products for your individual needs and keep an eye on your progress. If you have any issues, like tooth sensitivity or gum problems, your dentist will be able guide you on how to go about fixing them while still achieving a brighter smile.
7. Be Patient and Consistent
Remember that teeth whitening isn’t an overnight process but a journey that requires patience and consistence. So stick to your oral care routine and understand that noticeable changes won’t happen overnight. With dedication and time, you’ll see a brighter, healthier smile!
Conclusion
A bright smile can really boost your confidence and with the right routine, it’s achievable. There are different types of teeth whitening options to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you're considering over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments or professional-grade products, these methods offer convenient solutions for achieving a whiter smile in the comfort of your own home.
By sticking to these steps and keeping an eye on your oral health, you can get a brighter smile that not only looks fantastic but also makes your dentist happy.
Is it time for your dental check-up? Just leave us a message here, and we'll be happy to assist you with booking your appointment.
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References
- Yaacob M, Worthington HV, Deacon SA, Deery C, Walmsley AD, Robinson PG, Glenny AM. Powered versus manual toothbrushing for oral health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014 Jun 17;2014(6):CD002281. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD002281.pub3. PMID: 24934383; PMCID: PMC7133541.
- O'Hagan-Wong K, Enax J, Meyer F, Ganss B. The use of hydroxyapatite toothpaste to prevent dental caries. Odontology. 2022 Apr;110(2):223-230. doi: 10.1007/s10266-021-00675-4. Epub 2021 Nov 22. PMID: 34807345; PMCID: PMC8930857.