Your teeth put up with a lot of abuse. From foods high in sugar to drinks that contain tannins, nearly everything you consume has the potential to cause staining or decay. Although professional teeth whitening can change a smile dramatically, natural teeth are not impervious to staining. Thus, if you continue partaking in the same habits that led to discolored pearly whites in the first place, the results will not last nearly as long as they should. Fortunately, there are ways to maintain a brighter smile. Susan Kleier, DMD, of Lexington, KY, shares a few tips for doing so below.

3 Teeth Whitening Tips for Preserving a Beautiful Smile

1. Drink Coffee Conscientiously

You don’t have to give up all your favorite drinks to maintain a glowing smile; however, it is wise to limit your intake of coffee, tea, and wine to prevent severe staining. If you like to enjoy them regularly, you can reduce the staining effects of beverages high in tannins by drinking them within 20 or 30 minutes as opposed to sipping on them for hours. Drinking through a straw and swishing your mouth with water between glasses of wine or mugs of coffee will also prevent discoloration.

2. Take Advantage of Whitening Products

Whitening mouthwashes and toothpastes may not brighten teeth as dramatically as other approaches, but they can certainly help maintain an already white smile. Invest in some quality toothpaste that contains hydrogen peroxide after undergoing professional teeth whitening to ensure your new smile lasts.

3. Visit Your Dentist

A clean smile is a beautiful one, so stay on top of all oral exams. Most people should visit their dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. You will likely notice a difference in your smile after each appointment because the hygienist can remove plaque and tartar that a toothbrush cannot.

If you want to remove the years of staining that your teeth have accumulated, turn to Susan Kleier, DMD, in Lexington, KY. Dr. Kleier has been serving patients throughout the area for more than 25 years but remains committed to staying up-to-date on all the advancements in her field. To learn more about the comprehensive care this family dentist provides, visit her website. You can schedule teeth whitening by calling (859) 225-1188.