Everyone loves a healthy, white smile. Aging, tobacco use, the foods you eat, and your oral health care habits can darken your teeth over time. There are plenty of options on the market for whitening teeth. There are toothpastes and mouthwashes that tout the ability to brighten your smile, and the are many kits on the store shelves advertising their ability to whiten your teeth.

Before you add something to your dental regimen, it’s a good idea to sit down with your dentist and talk about your options, and to discover which whitening treatment is best for you. Our dentist, Dr. Michael Lemme can give you a whitening treatment in our office that is guaranteed to be safe and effective. During an in-office treatment, you will notice a difference in the color of your smile right away. The dentist can also give you a kit to take home with you to whiten your teeth on your own. You should keep in mind that teeth that have been discolored by illness, medication or by an accident, you may need to choose another option for whitening your smile.

Once your whitening procedure is finished, it will be up to you to maintain your smile. If you smoke or use tobacco, now would be the perfect time to quit, Tobacco can stain your teeth, and nicotine, which is an ingredient found in tobacco, can turn your teeth yellow.

Certain foods can stain your teeth as well. Dark colored foods and beverages will stain your teeth, and acidic foods will also cause discoloration. Most people understand that red wine will stain your teeth, but white wine contains acids that will cause your teeth to darken. Drinking plenty of water will help clean your teeth, as will eating hard cheese. Leafy green vegetables will leave a protective film on your teeth that can help keep stains from clinging to your enamel. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing before bed, and seeing your dentist for your regular cleanings and exams are a big part of maintaining your smile.

If you are interested in whitening your teeth, make an appointment today at Lemme Dental Studio in Oak Harbor, Washington by calling 360-675-3334 . We are looking forward to helping you have a bright and healthy smile!