Having a set of pearly whites that are genuinely white is a great confidence booster for most people. Unfortunately, there are a variety of tasty foods and beverages that can stain our teeth over time, and ageing can also contribute to the yellowing of our teeth. As a result, having white teeth can feel like something only a select few can achieve, at least securely. When teeth whitening is done incorrectly, it can damage the enamel, making the teeth more sensitive and susceptible to discoloration.
On the other hand, teeth whitening treatments are becoming more inexpensive than ever with advances in dentistry. This means that everyone can find a way to improve the whiteness of their teeth without going over budget with Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry.
How to get a whiter smile:
- Whitening Strips
Whitening strips sold over the counter are a trendy and economical approach to whiten your teeth. They are widespread, affordable to most people, and simple to do at home, but they do have some significant disadvantages. The strips may not fit your teeth perfectly because they are a mass-produced, one-size-fits-all approach to teeth whitening. This can leave yellow spots on your teeth where the whitening strip does not reach. Because the whitening strips do not fit everyone’s mouth perfectly, the chemicals in the strips come into direct touch with your gums, causing sensitive gums. The healthy bacteria in your mouth may also be harmed by these substances.
You should be cautious about how you use the whitening strips; Discuss with Dr. Borham about which strips are the safest before purchasing them, and carefully follow the instructions. If you use the strips incorrectly or too frequently, you risk damaging your teeth’s enamel. Not only does this cause tooth sensitivity, but it also increases the likelihood of subsequent staining.
- Professional Cleaning
A dental hygienist can assist remove tartar stains and places that cannot be brushed at home, brightening and whitening your teeth while also preventing cavities and gum disease. A professional dental cleaning at Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry can help you whiten your teeth while supporting your overall oral health.
- Prevent Dental Stains from Forming
While your teeth will naturally yellow as you get older, there are several things you can do to help prevent stains. You have to limit staining foods and beverages to a minimum.
Coffee, carbonated beverages, and dark berries are all known to discolor teeth. That does not mean you should avoid them entirely, but you should limit the amount of time they come into touch with your teeth. To avoid direct contact with your teeth, Dr. Borham advises drinking liquids to stain teeth out of a straw if possible. Additionally, brush your teeth 30 minutes after consuming one of these foods or beverages to reduce the color change in your teeth. In addition, avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as both can stain your teeth.
- Consume Fresh Fruits and Veggies
Fruit and vegetable-rich diets may be beneficial to both your body and your teeth. Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can help push plaque away as you eat, though they are no substitute for brushing. Strawberry and pineapple are two fruits that have been touted as tooth whiteners.
- Sugar Consumption Should be Limited
Reduce your sugar intake if you desire whiter teeth. Streptococcus mutans, the principal type of bacterium that produces plaque and gingivitis, thrives in a high-sugar diet. After eating a sugary snack, wash your teeth as soon as possible.
Call our Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry to make an appointment with Dr. Borham who will be able to help you find out more about this topic and improve your oral health.