If you reach for a mug of coffee every morning and a cold glass of cola each afternoon, you may notice that your teeth have lost their bright appearance. Coffee, tea, cola, and red wine are some of the common liquids that stain teeth. If you're wondering how to keep your teeth white, start by cutting back on these beverages.

• TIP: Use a Straw. If you can't live without these drinks, try sipping them through a straw, particularly in the first few days after a whitening treatment. Sipping through a straw reduces the amount of liquid with which your teeth come in contact. You can even buy a set of reusable straws so you can keep them handy wherever you might need them.

Eliminating stain-causing tobacco isn't just good for keeping your teeth white. There are many adverse oral risks associated with tobacco use, including gum disease, oral cancer, dulled tasting abilities, and slower healing after certain dental procedures. Removing tobacco use from your routine can lead to drastic improvements in the appearance of your teeth as well as for your overall dental health.

Whitening toothpaste is an excellent solution for removing any surface stains that may have accumulated throughout the day. Some even use hydrogen peroxide to whiten from the inside out. It's a simple step, but it can provide your teeth with a twice-daily whitening refresher, which can give you many more reasons to smile.

Enjoy potentially staining beverages in moderation, and drink water between each. Water is good for your overall health and will also help wash away dark liquids from the surfaces of your teeth. Try alternating a sip of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with a drink of water. As a bonus, your flavored beverage will last longer.

The longer the liquid sits on your teeth, the more intense the staining will be. Carry a toothbrush and toothpaste with you so that you can freshen up after your coffee break. However, it's essential that you wait at least 60 minutes to brush your teeth after drinking any acidic drink like coffee. Your enamel is soft for a short time after eating or drinking, so if you brush too soon, you may end up damaging it.

The best way to keep teeth white is a proper oral care routine. Since plaque attracts staining substances, reducing plaque in general will reduce overall discoloration. Twice-daily brushing will help to keep your mouth clean, healthy, and stain-free. Make sure you are flossing once a day as well, or you might end up with stains around the surfaces of your teeth even if you brush regularly.

Wondering how to keep teeth white aside from regular daily care? Visit your dentist's office for regular checkups at least two times a year. Your dentist or dental hygienist can polish away surface stains when they clean your teeth. This abrasive action is a useful tool for fighting discoloration without having to bleach your teeth again.

With excellent brushing habits and professional cleanings, you can maintain your bright smile. Still, stains can return over time, even without habits like coffee, drinking, and smoking. Be sure to talk to your dentist before whitening.

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.