Smiling does more than just show people that you’re happy. According to scientific studies, people who have a brilliant and dazzling smile are perceived to be more attractive and successful than people who do not smile as much. Unfortunately, our teeth tend to take on a more yellowish hue as we get older.

If you are insecure about the shade of your teeth, all hope is not lost. Due to advances in dental technology, you can achieve brilliant, white teeth by visiting your Greenville, SC dentist. From take-home tooth whitening trays to technology like Zoom In-Office Whitening, many trusted dentists like Dr. Brian Derrick of Falls Park Dentistry are able to provide patients with tooth whitening treatments that yield exceptional results.

Of course, you’ll want the results of your tooth whitening treatment to last as long as possible. With that in mind, here are a few tips dentists say you should turn into everyday habits:

Use a Straw When Drinking Beverages

Many popular beverages such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks have a tendency to stain teeth. In many cases, drinking such beverages can be unavoidable. In such situations, use a straw so the front of your teeth aren’t exposed to the offending beverage.

Stay Away from Dark Food

Coffee isn’t the only thing that can stain your teeth. Many dark-colored food products have pigments that easily discolor your pearly whites. Some of these food products include blueberries, tomato sauce, beets, soy sauce, and curry. If you have no choice but to eat any of these food products, take the time to gargle with water after you finish eating.

Replace Your Frayed Toothbrush

It goes without saying that brushing your teeth properly goes a long way toward maintaining your pearly whites. If you notice that the bristles of your toothbrush are starting to fray, however, you should drop by the nearest pharmacy and purchase a new one. After all, frayed toothbrush bristles are no longer capable of effectively scraping away debris from your teeth.

See Your Dentist Once Every Six Months

Naturally, you should see your Greenville dentist once every six months if you are really serious about maintaining the whiteness of your teeth. Aside from general cleaning and preventive dentistry treatments, your dentist can also provide you with touchups that keep your teeth whiter for longer periods of time.

Sources:

What Does Your Smile Say About You?, WebMD

7 Foods That Are Secretly Staining Your Teeth, Women’s Health Magazine