Every time one turns on the television, there is an advertisement for teeth whitening products. The question is which ones work and how do people keep their teeth white between treatments. After all, if the effect is only a single use, temporary fix, what is the point of using the method. Luckily there are some answers out there for dental whitening treatments and how to maintain that pearly white smile all year long.
Whitening Treatments
- The best whitening systems include the ones what have a chemical whitener, such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Do not assume that simply shining a black light onto the teeth will make them whiter, because this is not going to work. There has to be a chemical agent to remove the stains.
- Colgate has those strips that set on the teeth and claim to remove the stains. These do appear to work for most people. Those that have difficulty with these strips include those who do not have straight teeth. If the teeth are not straight, consider using a tooth tray that allows for some differences in the teeth alignment.
Be sure not to use a whitener that claims to lift a layer of enamel from the teeth. The teeth will not produce any new enamel, and you can open your teeth up to cavities and sensitivities.- If in doubt, talk to your dentist about what whitening agent he or she suggests. The dentist will help you find the right agent to use that is safe for any dental work that you may have had in the past.
Be sure not to use a whitener that claims to lift a layer of enamel from the teeth. The teeth will not produce any new enamel, and you can open your teeth up to cavities and sensitivities.Keeping Teeth White
- Stay way from cigarette and cigar smoking. The tar and nicotine in the cigarettes and cigars is quick to stain the teeth. This is often very difficult to remove from the teeth, even brushing your teeth immediately after smoking can leave those stains on the teeth.
- Avoid red wine and cola. Red wine, though healthy can leave stains on your teeth. The cola weakens the enamel and leaves it soft. This makes the teeth more porous and more prone to stains. Avoid these substances as often as possible and if they cannot be avoided, brush your teeth as soon as possible.
- Brush and floss your teeth after every meal, as soon as you get a chance to. Keeping a small toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse can help greatly. Even if you were not worried about white teeth, the feel of fresh breath is nice, plus it is nice for everyone around you.
Drink plenty of plain water. The plain water does not have any colors or sugars that can harm or stain your teeth. It can also leave you feeling hydrated and less likely to engage in drinking other things.
- Coffee is an essential aspect of most people’s lives, however it is also a number one culprate for tooth staining. This is because the acidity in the coffee weakens the teeth and leaves them more porous. The dark color of the coffee then works its way into the teeth and leaves them stained.
This is hardly a comprehensive guide to keeping your teeth white, but it can help considerably. Remember, just because your teeth look white, it does not mean that skipping dental appointments is a good idea. Be sure to keep your dental appointments at least twice a year for regular cleaning and preventative maintenance. This can be the single best thing you can do to keep or obtain a white and beautiful smile.