1. Avoid Food and Drink That Stain

Dark food and drink - like coffee, tea, and berries - stain your teeth much more easily than other substances due to the amount of pigment they contain. This is also true of artificially brightly colored foods, like candy or ice pops. You will also want to avoid acidic foods, as these change the texture of your enamel and make it easier for stains to stick. Many heavily pigmented foods are also acidic, but even clear or lightly colored substances can affect your teeth, like

• Clear soda
• Lemonade
• White wine
  

2. Use Over-the-Counter Whitening Aids

To try and lift any staining that has already occurred, you can try purchasing whitening products at your grocery store or pharmacy. These break down stains either by scrubbing the stain off your teeth with more abrasive particles than what is typically found in toothpaste, or with compounds like hydrogen peroxide. There are several options available to fit your routine, including:

• Toothpaste
• Oral rinses
• Whitening strips

3. Get Your Teeth Professionally Whitened

No matter how good your regular oral hygiene routine is, your teeth will become discolored as you age. This is due to the dentin of your tooth showing through your thinning enamel. You may also have teeth that are naturally more brown or gray due to your genetics. If other whitening options aren't working for you, you can see your dentist for a professional treatment.

You have the option to do an at-home treatment, where the dentist gives you supplies, or an in-office treatment where the dentist does the application for you. The concentration of active ingredients will likely vary between the at-home and in-office options.

At WestLake Dental Care, we want you to be happy with the way your smile looks and feels. From routine cleanings to tooth replacement to cosmetic procedures, we provide a full range of comprehensive family dental services in Sterling, Virginia. We even offer a free teeth whitening kit with your initial consultation so please contact us to schedule your appointment!