Do you want whiter teeth?

At Grand Dental Group, we know that our patients want that bright, white smile! Our team of dental professionals is happy to provide you with a list of whitening tips for keeping your pearly whites even whiter!

• Avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth. Many of our favorite foods and beverages are notorious for staining teeth and duller our smiles. Coffee, tea, caramel-colored pops and sodas, red wine and grape juice are all common drinks that cause staining. Blueberries and marinara and spaghetti sauces can also cause stains. Some of these foods and drinks have excellent health benefits, but can cause some surface stains as well.
• Eat crunchy foods that help remove plaque and stains. Fibrous foods such as celery, carrots, apples, etc. are great for naturally removing sticky plaque bacteria from your teeth. Plaque often harbors stains from the foods and drink we consume and eating crunchy foods can help reduce the amount of staining and plaque on our teeth and gums.
• Stop smoking! Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and even chewing tobacco are all well-documented as causing tooth stain and discoloration. Smoking leaves not only a dark brown or black stain along teeth, it can cause teeth to appear more yellow as well. Stains are the least of the smoker’s concerns, however. Major health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and gum disease are all negative side effects from smoking. Smoking cessation is a great way to get whiter teeth.
• Use your toothbrush! Many light surface stains can be removed or at least reduced through proper brushing. Patients should brush twice a day, for at least 2 minutes, and after meals if possible. Flossing also is important. Removing food and drink causing stains before they become “set” into the tooth structure or embedded into tartar can greatly improve your smile’s appearance.
• Whitening products can work if you still want a brighter appearance. Although they aren’t necessarily “natural”, safe whitening products are available over the counter and at your dental office to help you bleach your teeth. Typically, over the counter products are less effective and can cause gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, and uneven whitening if used incorrectly. Products sold in your dental office are better regulated, come with custom made trays, and are prescription strength. These dentist-monitored kits whiten your teeth more effectively.
• See your dentist! Visiting your dentist does not have to be a daily occurrence, but regular dental cleanings and checkups can remove stains and diagnose the underlying dental causes of tooth stains and discolorations. Some stains on your teeth may be caused by developmental conditions, tartar, or dental decay. In some cases, whitening your teeth may not be appropriate or effective. At Grand Dental, your dentist or hygienist should be able to determine if you are a candidate for bleaching your teeth and if you can expect a good result.

Before you change your diet, oral hygiene habits, or use whitening products or any kind, make sure that your dentist or medical doctor is aware. Although whiter Teeth look youthful and healthy, whitening your teeth is best done when your mouth is free from decay or other dental infections.

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