A bright, white smile is a thing of beauty, a coveted trait that few adults possess naturally. But not to worry, there are a few tips, tricks, and treatments that you can use to combat discoloration and maintain an attractive shade of enamel no matter what your age.
Hygiene and Habits
At my cosmetic dentistry practice in Boulder, Colorado, we educate all patients on the importance of dental hygiene to both prevent bacterial damage and protect your natural smile attributes. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is the golden rule for maintaining a beautiful smile. As you may know, excellent dental health begins with good eating practices, and avoiding high sugar foods can prevent compromising your smile through decay. Scheduling regular dental wellness visits ensures any signs of decay are caught early, preventing the destruction of natural enamel.
Remember, also, that certain foods and beverages can cause staining and speed up the discoloration process. Enjoy coffee, tea, red wine, and berries in moderation and be sure to brush and floss after consuming them.
Nicotine is perhaps the greatest preventable cause of discoloration and gum disease. If you’re a smoker, we would be happy to put you in touch with cessation programs in the area that can help you quit.
Professional Whitening
Laser tooth whitening is one method many of our patients turn to in an effort to revitalize teeth that appear dull and discolored. We also offer a take-home option by Opalescence, with customized mouth trays, that lets you whiten gradually in the comfort of your home. Keep in mind that professional tooth whitening offers a higher concentration of the active whitening ingredient carbamide peroxide, along with the peace of mind of professional supervision to ensure optimal results.
To learn more about smile whitening, please visit our previous blog post entitled “Professional Whitening Vs. Over-the-Counter Whitening.”
For more advice on keeping your smile bright and beautiful, please schedule an appointment with my team at your convenience.
Dr. Ania
Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry
