Keeping teeth white has become a key component in many people’s cosmetic routine. The key for white teeth is in the preventative methods, for once teeth have become discolored it is not as easy to fix as it is to prevent in the first place. Keeping teeth healthy is the key for keeping them white. A regular routine that includes brushing, flossing and preventative dental care is the best way to take care of your teeth and keep them white.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, most dentists advise regular brushing of 2 to 3 times per day to brush away food particles and drink residues that can cause discoloration and plaque buildup. Two or three times a day is enough brushing to keep white teeth, but something to remember is timing. If you brush your teeth after each meal or after drinking coffee or cola, you will get the temporary discoloration off faster and prevent any permanent discoloration from setting in. Frequent brushing is a good habit to have and is paramount to good dental health.
Teeth whitening agents, even those that are just toothpaste, should not be used nearly as often as regular, typical tooth brushing with plain toothpaste. The chemicals involved in whitening agents can wear over time and cause damage to the teeth and mouth. Damage such as thinning enamel, bluish colored teeth or temperature sensitivity cannot be reversed. While over-the-counter kits specifically for tooth whitening are obviously more potent than simply tooth whitening toothpastes, it is a good idea to limit brushing with such to once a day. Use a non-chemical toothpaste for regular cleanings the rest of the time.
There are many natural remedies and preventions for keeping teeth white, of which brushing 2 to 3 times a day is a part of. Brushing with plain baking soda and water is an age-old remedy that many people insist is effective against tooth discoloration, even from frequent coffee drinking or tobacco usage. As with most things, the most effective treatment is a preventative treatment when it comes to teeth whitening. You can go so far as to avoid things such as red wine, coffee, tobacco and even some foods such as those with curry or saffron in order to keep teeth white. Extreme measures are often not necessary with proper preventative measures such as frequent brushing, flossing often and routine dental care.