How to Maintain White & Bright Teeth

If you ask anyone what they would like to change about their smile, there’s a good chance they’ll say they want their teeth to be whiter. 

However, what most people don’t know is that making simple lifestyle changes can help boost and maintain those healthy, white teeth.

Daily Care for Cleaner Teeth

Brushing and flossing daily is a critical component of preventing plaque buildup and discoloration. All toothpaste is designed to fight surface stains. But our Chanhassen dentist advises that you veer toward brands with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and additional stain-fighting agents. 

Whitening toothpaste can bring many positive benefits to your oral health, but be careful if you have more sensitive teeth. Additionally, always remember to resist the urge to rinse immediately after brushing. Rinsing your mouth with water can also wash away the fluoride, which sticks to your teeth and gums and prevents decay.

Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks

Ironically, some foods with high nutritional value can cause damage to your teeth. Whether you eat them or drink them in juice form, blackberries, blueberries, beets, and tomato products can turn your teeth yellow. 

This does not mean you have to stop eating these snacks altogether, though. You can continue to eat these delicious snacks, but rinse your mouth out with water or brush shortly after consumption. And to best maintain your pearly whites, try incorporating more cheese and leafy green vegetables into your diet. Feel free to check our previous blog for a list of foods that prevent tooth decay. 

In regards to drinks—coffee, soda, sports drinks, and red wine will result in teeth staining and discoloration over time. As such, it is important to drink water in between consumption of these beverages, or reduce your intake of these products overall. You can also use a straw to prevent the strong color pigments and acids in these drinks from attacking your teeth. 

Overall, for both food and drinks, a safe rule of thumb to follow is that if it can stain your clothes, it can do similar damage to your teeth.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

The final step in maintaining a strong and beautiful smile is visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a professional cleaning. Our Chanhassen practice can provide you with more tips for keeping your teeth healthy and white, as well as advice on the best products to use. We also offer free teeth whitening to all new patients who want to improve their smile. Just call our office today at (952) 679-6360 or schedule a consultation online.