Growing up with a dentist as a father definitely made me a lot more self-conscious about my teeth. And anyone who's ever wore braces (of course myself included) most likely walks around with a pack of floss in their purse. I've been obsessed with having a whiter smile for pretty much most of my life. And because I'm such an avid tea drinker, once I see the stains I'm either at my dad's office for a cleaning or compulsively brushing my teeth with some good ol' baking soda. A bright, white smile like Jennifer Lopez's or Sofia Vergara's is a chica's best accessory and the coolest part is it's not that hard to get!
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While it is important to schedule a professional cleaning with your dentist or hygienist every six months, getting your teeth in top notch shape doesn't mean you have to make a ton of pricey visits. Believe it or not, all it takes is a few changes in your oral care routine. Here are a few tips and tricks I've learned over the years to help you get your smile in pearly white condition ASAP!
Stay on top of oral care: When it comes to maintaining a healthy, white smile brushing your teeth at least twice a day is an absolute MUST. I actually recommend brushing after all your main meals, like breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And of course before bedtime!
Get a cleaning: Don't underestimate the importance of a professional cleaning. During your checkup, your dentist evaluates the health of your teeth and gums, and also checks for tooth decay, vitamin deficiencies, and even oral cancer. I've never had a single cavity in my life and I owe it all to my cleanings every six months. Make this a priority!
Brush with baking soda: Create your own DIY whitening paste by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. It not only helps remove stains, but it helps fight off bacteria too. Can't stand the taste? Switch to a toothpaste that includes these ingredients, like Arm & Hammer Peroxi-Care Baking Soda and Peroxide Fresh Mint Toothpaste ($4).
Be careful with whitening strips: Yes at-home whitening strips work, but you really want to be careful not to overuse them. Over-the-counter treatments don't contain as much control as the ones your dentist might provide you with, so make sure not to go overboard. Too much bleaching can actually bring damage to your enamel causing your teeth to eventually weaken.
Try an electric toothbrush: I find electric brushes WAY more effective than regular ones. It makes me feel like I'm getting a professional cleaning right at home. I recommend the Oral B ProfessionalCare 1000 Electric Toothbrush ($45).
Drink from a straw: If you can't see yourself staying away from dark drinks, like café, tea, or red wine then considering drinking from a straw to help avoid stains from developing.
Always floss: Flossing is almost as important as brushing because it removes food from those tight spaces between your teeth that your brush can't reach. Not flossing can lead to gum disease or even tooth decay! So don't forget!
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