How to Make Your Teeth White in Time for the Holidays

Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste can help to remove stains, whiten teeth and prevent stain buildup. Many of these products contain mild chemicals or polishing agents to lift surface stains and prevent them from reappearing. Brushing twice a day will also fight cavities and plaque, ensuring that your teeth stay healthy and pearly-white.

Coffee, tea, soda, fruit juice and red wine all easily stain teeth. Avoid exposure to these drinks in your efforts to keep your teeth white, especially after a whitening treatment. That does not mean that you should give up your favorite drink, however. Drink these beverages through a straw, or rinse your mouth out after you drink to keep stains from settling onto the tooth surfaces.

Eating healthy vegetables and fruit can also keep your teeth white. Foods such as carrots, celery and apples provide plenty of vitamin C, which can trigger extra saliva production. Saliva washes away debris from your teeth, keeping them clean and sparkling.

You can find a variety of at-home tooth-whitening products at the drugstore, such as whitening strips and trays, that may lighten stains. Most of these whitening kits contain mild peroxide to dissolve surface stains on teeth and to make them appear visibly whiter. Be sure to contact your dentist before use for recommendations based on your dental history.

If your teeth still don't look their whitest, schedule an appointment with your dentist for an in-office whitening. A professional whitening will brighten your teeth several shades in just one appointment, allowing you to see immediate results.

Keeping your teeth white will help make this holiday season sparkle. Get started today to see results before the ball drops on New Year's Day.