Listen to Your Dentist When They Recommend Wisdom Teeth Extraction

When it comes to achieving whiter teeth, most people think that regular brushing and occasional teeth bleaching are the only way to go. However, what many people don't realize is that what you eat and drink can also have a major impact on how white and bright your teeth are. By taking a little more care to watch what you eat and drink, you just might be able to keep your smile looking a little brighter without needing professional cosmetic work done.

Stay Away From Teeth-Staining Foods and Drinks

There are lot of foods and drinks out there that are known for staining teeth. Coffee, for example, is one that most people are aware of. However, did you know that even food and drinks that are supposed to be "good" for you can be bad for your teeth? Berries, for instance, contain lots of antioxidants that are great for your body. However, they can also deeply stain your teeth. The same goes for fruit juice--especially those made from dark fruits, such as red grapes. And while you probably don't want to cut all of these foods/drinks out of your diet, you may want to watch your consumption of them.

Limit Your Consumption of Acidic Foods and Beverages

In addition to being careful about the teeth-staining foods you eat, you may also want to start limiting your intake of acidic foods in order to protect the whiteness of your teeth. That's because acid can wear away your tooth enamel, which is your tooth's first line of defense against staining (not to mention, decay). Some examples of common acidic foods and beverages to limit include lemons and limes, tomato juices, and sodas.

Increase Your Intake of Teeth-Cleaning Foods

Just as there are foods that are not so great for your tooth color, there are some foods that can help to naturally clean your teeth and prevent staining in between brushings and cleanings. Specifically, certain fruits (such as apples, which clean your teeth as you bite into them) can be great for your teeth, aside from the natural sugars found inside them. Furthermore, washing all of your meals down with a glass of water can also help to prevent staining.

As you can see, your diet can have a large impact on the appearance of your teeth--especially when it comes to how white and bright they are, and can prolong the effects of professional teeth whitening treatments. Now, how will you adjust your diet for a more confident smile?