Did you know that September is the second most popular month for weddings, after June? Brides-to-be aren’t the only ones who have to think about their smile during wedding festivities–there’s also an incentive for members of the wedding party, mothers-of-the-bride and groom, and even guests to seek professional teeth whitening in Shrewsbury, MA. Dr. Todd Pizzi offers tips for anyone who’s concerned about the way their teeth might appear in portraits or candid photos.
Simple Ways to Avoid Stained Teeth
Use a straw. Most of the time, it’s possible to prevent stains by making minor changes to the ways you eat and drink. For example, we recommend drinking through a straw, especially when drinking anything other than milk or plain water. Actually, this is one move that also helps protect against tooth decay, especially if you’re in the habit of drinking soda, sports drinks, or fruit juices, all of which are acidic and high in sugar.
Steer clear of stain-causing substances. Yes, there are toasts to be made and canapes to be sampled, but it’s best to avoid any food or beverage that is dark in color. Red wine, berries, tea, and coffee are off-limits, as are tomato-based sauces. Acidic foods and drinks should be avoided as well, as they make your teeth more likely to stain.
After eating, brush, rinse, or do both. Food that is allowed to remain on the surface of your teeth leads to stains and plaque formation. At the very least, rinse with plain water after you eat. If possible, brush your teeth. The exception? Wait a half-hour before using a toothbrush if you’ve just had something acidic; brushing could do further damage to the enamel.
Switch to whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste won’t produce dramatic results, but it’s good for gradual improvement in, say, the weeks leading up to a wedding. Covarine, a blue ingredient found in many whitening products, has a temporary whitening effect somewhat akin to an optical illusion. It’s the same principle behind choose blue- or violet-based lip color for whiter teeth.
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
Years of drinking coffee or using tobacco can do a number on your teeth, in which case over-the-counter products aren’t enough to brighten your smile. We use the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching System, a two-phase treatment that combines in-office and home whitening methods to lift resilient stains.
Whiter teeth for a white wedding. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry in Shrewsbury, MA, or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, contact us at (508) 842-8838. We welcome patients living in Shrewsbury, North and South Grafton, Boylston, Hopkinton, and the surrounding communities.
