Want whiter teeth? Here’s how!
Everyone wants beautiful, white teeth. Yet our tooth colour is not something that is fully under our control. In fact, the baseline colouring of most people’s teeth complements their complexion and hair colour. But there are things that can have a negative impact on tooth whiteness. So how can we get a brighter smile? By following these few simple tips!
Factors beyond our control
Some of the factors that can leave our teeth looking yellowish or greyish are beyond our control. For example:
- Age, aging and heredity
- Antibiotics taken before or during the development of teeth
- Root canals
Factors under our control
Oral hygiene
We all know that maintaining regular, thorough oral hygiene is the basis of white sparkling teeth. This means 3 minutes of brushing, 3 times a day, after every meal. Daily use of dental floss is also recommended. If you are unable to brush your teeth after a meal, finish off with a food that protects teeth, like a piece of cheese accompanied by a glass of water.
There are various toothpastes, mouthwashes and other whitening products available on the market today. Some work by cleaning hard-to-reach places and contain active ingredients believed to help eliminate surface stains and prevent the appearance of new stains. Before using this type of product, carefully read the instructions to make sure it is right for you or talk to your dentist.
Foods to avoid
If consumed often, certain foods and beverages can stain your sparkling whites. Here is a list of items you may not want to sink your teeth into on a regular basis:
- Red wine, tea and coffee
- Foods with a high concentration of pigment, such as cherries, blackberries and blueberries
- Acidic foods or beverages, such as soft drinks and citrus fruit, which damage tooth enamel
That being said, do not deprive yourself of berries and other healthy fruit; just take meticulous care of your teeth.
Good to know!
You should not brush your teeth right after eating or drinking a highly acidic substance, since this can may harm the enamel surface.
Finally, while it is not something you eat, it still tops the list as the biggest tooth-staining culprit: tobacco! Over time, cigarettes can even leave your teeth looking blackish.
Foods that help
Another fact that some people may not know: some foods can actually help eliminate deposits from our teeth by stimulating the production of saliva. A sort of natural cleaning! Carrots, celery and apples, are excellent examples of foods that can help in this respect.
Pharmacy services
To learn more, visit your local Uniprix store!
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.