Going to the dentist isn't any fun, but it is one of those things that just has to be done. For years, I fought the process and didn't go for my regular cleanings and in the end, it sure didn't pay to do so. I ended up spending ten times as much time in the chair and a boat-load of money in dental repairs. If you don't like going to the dentist, you can make it easier on yourself. This blog will show you a few tips that can help you improve the experience and get through the treatment without as much discomfort.
going to the dentist with less anxiety
8 Ways To Whiten Your Smile
Jordan Arnold
A white and bright smile can enhance your entire appearance and make you feel more self-confident about yourself. If your teeth are not currently as white as you want them to be, there are certain things you can do at home to improve the way they look. Changing some of your lifestyle habits can make a difference in just a few weeks. Here are eight effective ways to whiten your smile:
Limit Certain Foods and Beverages
If you want to whiten your smile, there are certain foods and drinks you can't have all the time. Coffee, for example, is one of the worst beverages for your teeth. If you drink it every morning, you will be more likely to have stains on your teeth. If you do not want to give coffee up completely, Everyday Health recommends lightening it with a little milk. Tea can also discolor your teeth because it contains tannins. Other foods and drinks to stay away from include red wine, soy sauce, blueberries and beets.
Rub Strawberries on Your Teeth
Strawberries are not just packed with vitamin C; they can also help whiten your teeth. According to Daily Mail, the acid content in strawberries can remove stains from your teeth. After you mash up one strawberry with a fork, apply it to the surfaces of your teeth for about a minute. If you do this every day, you should see noticeable results in a few weeks.
Do not Forget to Switch Your Toothbrush
Just like anything else, a toothbrush will not work as effectively after it has been used too many times. When the bristles become frayed, they can't remove food particles and plaque off your teeth as well, increasing the risk of stains. Remember to change your toothbrush at least every three months.
Drink With a Straw
If you decide to drink a teeth staining beverage, like red wine, you should at least use a straw. Sipping one of these drinks with a straw will keep the liquid away from the surfaces of your teeth, minimizing stains.
Add Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables to Your Diet
Another way you can fight teeth stains is to eat crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, celery and carrots. These foods have a very abrasive texture, so they do a good job at scrubbing stains right off your teeth. If you eat these fruits and vegetables often, you can also decrease your risk of cavities.
Add Baking Soda to Your Toothpaste
Baking soda is another great teeth whitener because it is so abrasive. All you have to do is add a pinch of baking soda to your toothpaste and brush your teeth like normal. After a few weeks, your teeth should have fewer stains.
Brush Your Tongue
Cleaning your tongue every morning will not just help you fight bad breath; it can also keep stains off your teeth. Food particles and bacteria can accumulate on your tongue throughout the day and eventually transfer to your teeth, leaving stains. Clean your tongue by moving your toothbrush in several long strokes.
Look At Your Medications
Certain medications can lead to teeth stains, so you should take a look at the ones you take. For example, if you take blood pressure medication, it could dry out your mouth, increasing the risk of stains. If your medication is discoloring your teeth, you should talk to your doctor about switching to something different.
As you can see, there are many different ways to achieve a white smile at home. If you follow these helpful tips, you can have a more beautiful smile in no time. And for a more professionally whitened smile, contact local cosmetic dentists, such as Bonnie Marshall S, today.
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