Good dental hygiene is essential for self-confidence and healthy teeth and gums. Even if you invest in teeth whitening, you may notice your smile beginning to dull as time goes by. Fortunately, a few daily practices can help you banish stains and keep your teeth white for longer.

How to Maintain a Bright Smile

1. Practice Good Dental Hygiene

White teeth begin with diligent dental hygiene. Brush twice a day for two minutes each time, floss daily, and use a mouthwash to help banish bacteria. A soft-bristled brush is best, and it's important to avoid focusing on one area for too long to avoid harming the enamel, which can facilitate stains. You can also ask your dentist for recommendations on whitening toothpaste or mouthwash for extra stain-fighting power. 

2. Limit Food and Drinks That Stain

Some foods and beverages are notorious for staining enamel, such as coffee, wine, dark teas, beets, berries, and other colorful foods. While you don't need to completely eliminate these from your diet, be mindful of how often you consume them and brush your teeth after you're done to prevent stains before they set. During the warmer months, switch to iced coffee, as drinking it out of a straw can reduce contact with your teeth and lower the risk of stains.

3. Snack Strategically

While some foods can expedite the staining process, others help wash away stains and support healthy dental hygiene. Some of the best, teeth-friendly foods include water-dense fruits and vegetables, such as apples, celery, cucumbers, pears, and other types of mouthwatering produce. The saliva that's triggered when you eat these snacks can wash bacteria from your mouth and boost the vibrancy of your teeth. 

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is great for your overall health, but it can also aid in the teeth whitening process. Drinking water throughout the day will wash away stain-causing bacteria and keep your mouth feeling clean. After eating or drinking anything particularly dark or colorful, take a sip of water and swish it around your mouth. Drinking water throughout the day naturally rinses your teeth, so stains don't have time to bind to the surfaces. 

For effective, long-lasting teeth whitening solutions, turn to the professionals at William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD. Dr. Britton is dedicated to exceptional dental hygiene and can help you regain confidence in your smile. He has over 35 years of experience serving residents of Jackson and Chillicothe, OH, providing preventive, general, and cosmetic dentistry to patients of all ages. Learn more about the practice online or call (740) 772-2225 to schedule a regular dental hygiene appointment and receive a free teeth whitening session.