A teeth whitening service from your dentist is the best way to get the brilliant white smile you've dreamed of. However, professional teeth whitening can be expensive. There are teeth whitening methods you can try at home to get a whiter smile. These methods will also keep your teeth white if you've had a professional service. Here are the top tips for getting and keeping a white smile:

Use baking soda

Brush your teeth with baking soda at least once a week to remove surface stains. If your teeth are very stained, brush at least twice a week. Simply wet your toothbrush and dip in a spoonful of baking soda. If the soda irritates your gums, decrease brushing to every other week.

Use whitening trays or strips

Whitening trays and strips are very effective at removing stains. While they don't quite match up to a professional service, they are a cost effective way to whiten your teeth by at least several shades. Whitening trays are recommended if you have stains near the gum line since strips can slip down. Once you've whitened your teeth, you can use strips or trays once or twice a year to keep your teeth white.

Watch what you drink

You know you should watch what you eat, but when it comes to getting and keeping a whiter smile, you need to watch what you drink. Coffee, wine, and dark soda can stain your teeth. These beverages can also wear away your tooth enamel, causing your teeth to look darker. If you drink coffee, wine, or soda, sip through a straw and brush your teeth immediately after.

Use whitening toothpaste and rinses

Replace your regular toothpaste and mouthwash with a whitening toothpaste and rinse. Whitening toothpastes and rinses will not remove deep stains, but they will remove and prevent surface stains. Make sure you choose products that are ADA approved to whiten teeth.

Know how to choose the correct whitening system

The whitening system you need depends on the teeth stains you have. A product that's right for mild stains may not work if you have heavy stains. Here is a guide on choosing the correct at home whitening system:

• The higher the amount of peroxide, the more effective the product is. Choose low concentrations if your teeth are not heavily stained.
• For deep stains, choose a product that requires more contact time and days of use.
• If you have sensitive gums or teeth, steer clear of products with carbamide peroxide.
• Strips and trays are most effective since they keep gel in contact with teeth.

These are the best ways you can get and maintain a white smile at home. For more information, contact Graylyn Dental or a similar location.