Having white teeth has become a symbol of beauty and health in recent decades, but is it actually natural for teeth to be white? The answer is not necessary.
First of all, it’s important to understand the anatomy of a tooth. The outer layer of a tooth, called the enamel, is the part that is visible when you smile. Enamel is made up of microscopic mineral crystals and is naturally yellow or off-white in color. However, enamel can become stained or discolored over time due to certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking or drinking coffee.
In addition to the color of enamel, the shade of a person’s teeth is also affected by the underlying dentin. Dentin is a hard, yellow substance that lies beneath the enamel and makes up most of the tooth’s structure. The dentin can become darker or more yellow over time, which can affect the overall color of the teeth.
With all of that said, however, many people want their teeth white, and that’s where teeth whitening comes in! Today, we want to talk about the various ways you can whiten your teeth for that beautiful smile:
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
The most important way to maintain white teeth is to brush and floss twice a day. Brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, helping to prevent discoloration and staining. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to help keep your teeth healthy and avoid discoloration.
2. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste contains special abrasive ingredients that can help to remove surface stains from your teeth. Whitening toothpaste is available at most drug stores and grocery stores.
3. Try a Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are two natural teeth-whitening agents that can help to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. Mix together equal parts of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to apply the paste to your teeth and gently scrub for two minutes. Rinse your mouth out with water and repeat a few times a week.
4. Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural acid that can help to remove stains from your teeth. Mix together equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and swish the mixture around in your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the mixture out and rinse your mouth with water. Repeat a few times a week for the best results.
5. Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and celery, can help to naturally scrub away surface stains from your teeth. Eating these types of foods also helps to increase saliva production, which can help to keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of tooth discoloration.
6. Opt for Professional Teeth Whitening
If you’re looking for a more drastic and long-lasting solution for your stained teeth, professional teeth whitening may be the best option for you. Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to remove deep stains and restore the natural whiteness of your teeth!
Conclusion
Stained teeth can be a source of embarrassment and low self-esteem. However, with the right care and maintenance, you can keep your teeth looking whiter and brighter! Try out some of the tips and tricks discussed above to help keep your teeth looking healthy and stain-free.
Mass Dental Associates is a dental practice offering quality dental care to elevate everyone’s oral health. If you are looking for teeth whitening in Boston, work with us today!
