A smile is the prettiest thing that a person can wear. However, one-third of people are embarrassed by their smile. One of the main reasons for this sense of embarrassment is because many people don’t believe that their teeth are white enough. So, if this sounds like you, check out these tips to help preserve your pearly whites.
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Eat Dairy Products
According to the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, foods that are high in calcium such as cheese and yogurt can help keep your teeth white. The calcium in dairy products can also keep enamel strong and the lactic acid helps to prevent tooth decay. Eating harder cheeses like sharp cheddar and alpine shepherd can also work to eliminate particles that are left on your teeth.
Change Your Toothbrush
A whiter smile can come down to your toothbrush. You should be replacing your brush, or electric toothbrush head, every three months, or sooner if you notice the bristles are starting to bend. When the bristles bend, they are no longer eliminating bacteria and are actually transferring more bacteria into your mouth. When you brush you should hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and move in a circular motion to obtain the best results.
Gargle with Apple Cider Vinegar
This may sound like an odd thing to gargle with, but apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as a natural cleaning product. The acetic acid found in the vinegar kills germs while promoting the growth of good, probiotic bacteria. Since it breaks down plaque, apple cider vinegar has been found to have a bleaching effect on teeth. You should gargle with the vinegar for about one minute and then rinse your mouth out with water or a hydrogen peroxide rinse. However, be sure to do this no more than once a week because too much vinegar can erode your enamel.
See a Professional
If none of these natural remedies are working for you, or if you simply want faster results, you may want to contact a professional. Dr. Carl Metz of Vibrant Dentistry believes that cosmetic dentistry is about uncovering the beauty that already exists underneath. You can laser technology to lighten the shade of your teeth or fit porcelain veneers to improve the look of your teeth. Either way, you will be on your way to bright pearly whites in no time.
Your smile is the first thing that people notice about you, so you should do all you can to protect your teeth. Bright pearly whites are the way towards a bright, successful future.
