Whitening the Natural Way.
There are a couple of easy and cost effective ways to keep your teeth looking whiter and brighter, naturally. Chairman of the ADA’s Oral Health Committee, Dr Peter Alldritt, says the best way to keep a healthy white smile is to maintain good oral health.
“Practising good oral hygiene is a basic way to assist in making your teeth look whiter naturally.” “Brushing and flossing your teeth daily assists in removing surface stains on your teeth,” Dr Alldritt says.
For healthier and better looking teeth, you should:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss your teeth daily
- Chew sugar-free gum if advised by your dentist
- Drink water throughout the day
- Consume a sensible diet
- Visit your dentist regularly for a professional clean
What to avoid:
Extrinsic stains are superficial stains found on the surface of the tooth, which are caused by dental plaque, tars (in tobacco), tannins, coloured foods and frequent use of certain mouthwashes. Common foods and beverages that stain teeth include:
- herbal and black tea
- coffee
- red wine
- spicy foods like curries
Smoking cigarettes also causes unsightly stains on teeth, which can be extremely difficult to remove.
Extrinsic stains on the tooth’s surface can be removed by a dentist performing a professional scale and clean.