Brushing with a normal toothpaste can help keep your teeth clean and white; all toothpastes have mild whitening benefits. Abrasive action and polishing from brushing, along with a professional dentist cleaning, are effective methods for removing some external stains.

A whitening toothpaste contains additional chemical or polishing agents to help make teeth whiter. Brush twice daily with a whitening toothpaste that also helps to fight cavities and reduces plaque, and you'll not only be whitening your teeth, but also practicing good dental care.

4 tips for a brighter routine

  • You can use a toothbrush like Colgate® 360 for that extra special polishing action. With soft rubber cups to hold the whitening toothpaste and polishing bristles for more effective stain removal, you can easily take the brightening regimen to the next level.
  • See your dentist every six months. Regular cleanings help to remove discoloration of the teeth due to external staining factors.
  • To prevent stains from returning, try cutting back on some of the common causes of tooth discoloration, like red wine, coffee, tea and tobacco.
  • If giving up coffee will turn you into bleary-eyed zombie, simply rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking your morning cup can help reduce yellowing of the teeth.

Dazzling dental help

If you want to try other options like in-office bleaching or whitening gels for more dramatic results, make an appointment with your dentist. They’ll talk you through the whitening treatments that are right for your smile.

Original content by Brenna Stone

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

ORAL HEALTH QUIZ

What's behind your smile?

Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine

DO YOU KNOW?

2.3 billion

people worldwide suffer from tooth decay

ORAL HEALTH QUIZ

What's behind your smile?

Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine

DO YOU KNOW?

2.3 billion

people worldwide suffer from tooth decay