Almost everyone wishes they had perfectly flawless, bright smiles, but very few people come by them honestly. For starters, your teeth aren’t naturally white; the enamel is translucent bluish-white, but the underlying layer of dentin is yellow, giving your grin an ivory appearance.
Not only that, but years of daily use can stain your enamel and leave it looking more yellow or brown. Although many commercial products claim to be able to remove stains, they don’t always deliver the promised results and can cause sensitivity if they’re overapplied. Continue reading to learn about three dentist-recommended ways to lighten your teeth safely!
Method #1: Proper Preventative Care
Enamel is the strongest substance the human body produces, but it’s not invincible. Bacteria in your mouth work with leftover bits of food and other residue to create a sticky film of plaque over your teeth that absorbs ingredients that stain. In time, this can leave your once-pearly whites looking worse for wear.
One easy and effective way to keep this from happening is by practicing a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice daily. This removes germs and plaque from your teeth and gums to strengthen them so they’re more resistant to discoloration, disease, decay, and other types of damage.
Method #2: Professional Whitening Treatments
If you have stubborn stains you can’t seem to brush away and have already tried over-the-counter options with no success, it might be time to call your dentist! They have access to ultra-concentrated gels that are designed to minimize potential sensitivity.
A single in-office visit can lighten your teeth by several shades for instant results. If you prefer, they can also provide a take-home kit with the same top-quality materials along with custom-fitted trays to maximize your results at home.
Method #3: Avoid Dark Foods
Whether you hope to maintain your natural hue or recently brightened your grin with your dentist, you can avoid additional dental discoloration by steering clear of common culprits known to cause problems. For example, tea, coffee, and wine contain tannins, which can stain teeth. Try limiting your consumption to keep your smile looking lighter for longer. For instance, try to finish your coffee within 15 to 20 minutes instead of sipping it all morning. Then, chase it with a tall glass of water to avoid stains and acid damage.
If none of these tips help, you might be dealing with blemishes in the lower layers of your teeth. These can’t be treated topically, so you’ll need to consult with your dentist on another appropriate solution, like veneers or dental bonding.
About the Author
Dr. Publio Silfa has 10+ years of experience helping people build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Universidad Central del Este in the Dominican Republic and then completed a three-year post-graduate residency at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Now, he’s committed to ongoing education to hone his skills and knowledge and is a valued member of the American Dental Association, so you know you’re in good hands. His concierge-style office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. If you’re frustrated by dental discoloration, you can request a consultation on the website or call (631) 651-1322.
