Having a healthy-looking, brilliant smile can take years off of your appearance. Because of wear and tear, the aging process, and lifestyle choices that we make can all take a toll on the color of our teeth. Many Americans have opted to select one of the many options available for teeth whitening.

Make regular appointments to have your teeth cleaned by a dentist. You need to schedule these appointments at least once a year. The discoloration on your teeth may not be caused by actual staining but simply by plaque build-up, which is difficult to remove without the professional tools your dentist has.

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Regular brushing helps to prevent plaque build up, because this can result in permanent discoloration of your teeth. Once it builds up, it is difficult to remove without the assistance of a dentist, so it’s better to avoid the problem in the first place.

When using a teeth whitening kit be sure to follow the directions exactly as they are written. Do not think that if you leave it on longer that you are going to see better results. It can irritate your gums and could lead to some really serious problems down the road. The directions are there to be followed.

Pack a toothbrush in your purse or lunchbox to use after a sugary meal or treat. These types of foods tend to stick to teeth, and can start or add to any staining. When you’re done enjoying your sweet treats, take some time to brush your teeth. Even without toothpaste, giving your teeth a good scrub and rinsing thoroughly with water will prevent food stains from setting.

A great way to whiten your teeth is to use tooth whitening strips. Usually you will use these once or twice a day to both the top and the bottom. Leave it on for the appointed time then take it off. In a few weeks you should be a few shades whiter.

One of the most effective ways to naturally whiten your teeth is to use a mixture of lemon juice and salt. You can make this up and keep it in a jar in your bathroom and use it a few times a week. Be sure to rinse your mouth out thoroughly after you are done to prevent damage from the acids in the lemon juice.

Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide before you brush your teeth. This is a natural remedy that is cheap and works well. It will help whiten your teeth and it isn’t as harsh as other whitening methods. Be careful not to swallow it because it will make you sick and possibly vomit.

When using over-the-counter teeth whitening products it is important to read and follow the directions very carefully. Don’t leave the strips or gel on longer than the instructions dictate, as this could lead to sores and problems in your mouth. Avoid drinking or eating acidic foods or beverages for a couple of hours after treatment.

Use dried, crushed holy basil leaves to whiten your teeth. This is a known method for naturally whitening your teeth and is very effective. It is also very good for your keeping your gums healthy. This is a great way to whiten your teeth and has positive oral health benefits.

There are a variety of home ingredients that you can use to get your smile looking a little whiter. You can try using lemon juice or baking soda to help get a cleaner smile. Many home ingredients have been proven to give you a whiter smile with little effort.

Most smokers already know that smoking leaves their teeth dull looking and discolored. Smokers will always have a much harder time in whitening their teeth than non-smokers. Stopping smoking will improve the color of your teeth drastically. Not to mention, not smoking is just better for your health.

If you’re going to consume beverages that can stain the teeth, drink water after each sip. This keeps the dark drinks from sticking to your teeth by washing them away right away, which keeps your teeth white. Another idea is to use a straw when drinking dark beverages or use milk that does not have the fat removed in your coffee.

To help whiten your teeth, chew gum often after meals. Your teeth are naturally white and certain gums enable the mouth to do its own biochemistry and whitening and preservation of enamel after a meal. To get the most out of your teeth whitening efforts, let the body do all it can before you hit the toothpaste.

Teeth whitening pens can be a useful method to use for getting whiter teeth. This gel is similar to bleach so be careful. It is important to apply the product to your teeth with care, and to refrain from using it in excess.

An effective way to get rid of teeth discoloration and make your teeth whiter, consider getting veneers. With veneers, a white-colored tooth covering is placed on top of the discolored teeth, giving them a sparkly appearance. Not only is this method, safe but it is even covered by certain insurance.

Avoid teeth whitening products if you are or believe you may be pregnant. Some of these products include ingredients that are harmful to a developing fetus. Certain whitening toothpastes might be okay to use, but even for those you need to consult your doctor first.

Although it may seen odd, an effective way to get whiter teeth is to use wood ash. It has potassium hydroxide, a key ingredient known to whiten teeth. In order to use this method, mix it with a small amount of your toothpaste, and apply it to your toothbrush. Brush your teeth like your normally would.

Whether you choose to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home, or as you relax at the dentist’s office, you will no doubt be pleased with the results! A tremendous amount of what we look like has to do with our smile, so go treat yourself!