One of the first things that someone notices about you are your teeth. If you have a nice smile and nice teeth, it can sometimes make all the difference. You can go to your cosmetic dentist to achieve this, but at the same time, you can also try things on your own, or at least in maintaining it after visiting your dentist.

Other than for appearance, healthy teeth play a part in how we speak and chew and also how we carry ourselves. Here are some simple tips for healthy, white teeth.

1. Brushing After Drinking & Eating

This can be difficult to do, but if you’re someone who works from home, then it’s a little easier. Every time you eat and drink something, brushing immediately afterwards can help you keep your teeth clean and white. Not everything is going to stain your teeth, but drinking coffee and having a cigarette will definitely discolour your teeth. It does take a bit of diligence and it can be harder to do if you’re outside or at school, but if you’re someone who is at home a lot, this will help you.

2. Change Your Brush

You really should get rid of your toothbrush (or change the head) every couple of months. It makes a difference, even if you think your toothbrush still looks relatively new. You can even go for about three months, but after that, you should change it.

3. Firm & Crispy Foods

Certain foods have a cleansing effect. Apples, for example, can help to clean your teeth. In fact, apples are sometimes known as “nature’s toothbrush”. Raw  carrots and celery will also help to clean teeth as you eat.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide & Baking Soda

You can make a paste by using two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide and one tablespoon of baking soda. Stir this into a paste and brush your teeth. After you brush, wait for about 30 to 60 seconds and then rinse your mouth to get rid of any of these ingredients completely. You can do this once a week or at the very most, twice, but no more than that. Baking soda can break down enamel over time and make your teeth sensitive, so this is not something you should do every day, but once a week is absolutely fine.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a mouthwash and whiten your teeth at the same time. This will help you get rid of bad breath. Mix one part of apple cider vinegar with two parts of water. It must be diluted. Again, don’t do this too often, since it can wear down enamel. As long as you dilute it and don’t use it too often, you’re fine. Make sure to rinse properly and then brush your teeth.

6. Teeth Whitening Strips

These are very popular and quite affordable. Sometimes, you can see the effects after just a few days. These results can last for months, but of course, you will also have to play your part in keeping them that way. So, if you drink lots of red wine and coffee and smoke, chances are you’ll have to keep using it regularly. Many find this a good choice, but speak to your family dentist as well to see if this is something you can try.