Whiter teeth. Everyone wants them, but not everyone has the time or money to get them. So, what can you do if your teeth need a bit of a pick-me-up but you’re short on time and money? Try these quick tips for a whiter, brighter smile.
Blue-toned makeup
This probably sounds scarier than it is, but leading beauty magazines say if you aim for a red lipstick with blue (cool) undertones, it can help make your teeth appear less yellow. This is because blue and yellow are at opposite ends of the color spectrum, so when you wear a lipstick with blue undertones, it actually helps tone down the yellow discoloration in your teeth. The effect doesn’t stop at your mouth, either. The same experts say that even though your eyes aren’t right next to your mouth, wearing blue eye makeup can have the same positive effect on discolored teeth because it draws attention to your eyes and away from your mouth. Just remember if you do choose red lipstick to avoid reds with brown or orange undertones, because those shades will make your teeth look even more yellow than they really are!
Ditch your drink
You may have yellowed teeth, but do you know what’s causing their discoloration? If you regularly drink coffee, cola, tea or red wine, you could be contributing to that unflattering hue on your teeth. Caffeinated drinks can be hard to give up, but if you need whiter teeth fast, try skipping that latte or Diet Coke and opt for clear fluids instead. Are you a smoker? Quitting can save your life and your teeth!
Make a DIY paste
Were you one of those kids who liked playing chef or mad scientist? Then this tip may be right up your alley! Try mixing up a paste of one tablespoon of baking soda to two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide. Apply to your teeth as you would normal toothpaste, and allow it to sit on your teeth for about a minute before rinsing well. Remember, DIY pastes are great for occasional use but should not replace regular fluoridated toothpaste.
Beware of online whitening recipes that recommend adding fruits like lemon or strawberries to your baking soda and peroxide paste. Studies have shown that not only do these fruits do nothing to aid in whitening, but mixing in highly acidic fruits like lemon can also damage your tooth enamel while you brush!
Schedule a quick professional whitening treatment
Professional whitening treatments may cost more than at-home DIY treatments, but they work a whole lot better, too. In as little as one hour, you can whiten your teeth several shades using a combination of whitening gel and UV lights.
If these tricks still don’t get your teeth quite as white as you’d hoped and you’re ready to try a professional whitening treatment, give Dr. Abelar’s office a call at 858-866-9692 and schedule an in-office whitening session for a whiter, brighter smile in about an hour.
