How Can I Keep My Teeth White?

Posted by

appleslicesAre you wondering how to keep your teeth white after a professional or at-home whitening? Some people’s teeth are inherently whiter than others and then there are those whose teeth prove a struggle to keep white. There are some things you can do to keep your teeth white. In today’s blog, your Des Moines Dentist, Dr. Stephen Burds explains how.

Foods to Eat

There are certain foods you can eat that will help keep your teeth white. In fact, by choosing to eat these foods, as opposed to others, you may help eliminate the need to whiten your teeth at all. The foods in the list below promote saliva flow. Saliva is important in that it neutralizes acids and washes away harmful bacteria. They are crisp, firm fruits and vegetables that clean your teeth while chewing because of their texture. Eating the following foods will help keep your teeth white:

  • Apples
  • Celery
  • Carrots
  • Green beans
  • Cauliflower

Dairy products high in calcium, such as cheese, also help keep teeth white, and the lactic acid in dairy products helps prevent decay. Hard cheeses help scrub food from your teeth.

Foods and Beverages to Avoid

There are also foods that will stain your teeth. Try to avoid drinking coffee, tea, red wines, sports drinks, and dark-colored sodas. Try to avoid eating red sauce, soy sauce, and berries. Also, try to refrain from smoking, because that, too, will stain your teeth.

Tips

The upcoming holidays will probably prove a challenge when trying to avoid certain foods. Keep the following tips in mind if you do indulge in the foods and beverages that stain teeth.

  • Use a straw
  • Don’t swish or hold beverages in your mouth before swallowing
  • Rinse with water afterwards

About your Des Moines Dentist

If a sleep disorder is taking a toll on your health and relationships, contact Dr. Stephen J. Burds office at 515-442-5659. As a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, he has extensive experience helping his patients obtain restful sleep via oral appliance therapy. We welcome patients from River Bend, Kirkwood Glen, East Village, and neighboring communities.