Although most people will do many things to improve their appearance, such as hairstyling, makeup, cosmetic surgery, or simply by choosing what clothes they wear, dentists often remark upon their dismay that so many fail to care for their teeth properly, especially when it is teeth on display when we smile.

With our smiles often being remarked upon as one of the most beautiful facial features we have, it often beggars belief why so many people seem content for their teeth to become stained. Think of the comparison of a smile that displays clean, white teeth, and a smile that is tarnished by the fact that the person smiling has stained teeth whose colour is closer to yellow or brown than it is to white.

The crying shame in all of this is that stained teeth are so avoidable. Rather than living with stained teeth or continually having to pay for whitening sessions or treatments, you can prevent it from happening by following any of the 5 tips below which apply to you.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Probably the most predictable tip, but the simple fact is that proper oral hygiene will help to prevent your teeth from becoming stained. As your dentist will surely confirm, regular brushing and flossing is, without doubt, the best way to maintain healthy gums and clean white teeth.

Although we are talking mainly about teeth here, do not underestimate the importance of your gums being healthy, as without them your concern might just move from the colour of your teeth to your lack of them.

Avoid Foods And Drinks That Stain

If you are unsure what these might be, think of all the foods and drinks that, if you spilt them on your favourite shirt or top, you know they are effectively ruined as the stain is not coming out. We are talking about the likes of red wine, tomato ketchup, tea, and coffee. In addition, with respect to some drinks, their high acidity levels can cause issues too.

Whilst it might be a step too far for you to completely give up some of your favourite foods or drinks, either try to cut down on them or at least, brush and floss after each time you eat or drink them.

Stop Smoking

Sorry smokers, but there is no getting away from the fact that, apart from all the health issues that smoking can create, another side effect of smoking is that it stains your teeth. It also causes deterioration of gums and teeth so however you can, please stop. Whether you use hypnosis, nicotine patches, e-cigarettes, or sheer willpower, you will be thankful when you can finally say you are a non-smoker…and so will your stain-free teeth.

Chew Food Properly

As well as eating the correct foods, chewing food correctly can help to keep them white. In particular, chewing certain fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery, effectively scrubs your teeth. In addition, you can add a protective layer to the surface of your teeth by eating broccoli, spinach, lettuce, and kale.

Avoid Bad Habits

There are certain bad habits that can all lead to your teeth becoming stained. These include clenching your teeth, grinding your teeth, biting your nails, and using your teeth as a tool to open things. All of these can chip away the enamel that protects your teeth and expose the dentin underneath. Without protection, the dentin can stain easily, and thereafter, progression of staining accelerates.