If your regular teeth cleanings aren't doing anything to improve the appearance of your teeth, you need to figure out how to whiten your teeth yourself. There are so many different options for improving the color of your teeth. Reading this article is an excellent starting point.

Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol or have coloring added to them. These colorings are known to have a staining effect on your teeth. The chemicals that they use are also not good for you. One well known mouthwash has been known to stain your teeth a brownish color.

Be careful with excessive whitening of your teeth. If you have repeatedly whitened your teeth, you may be causing irreparable damage to the teeth. You should avoid using powerful whitening products repeatedly. If you are not receiving the results from the whitening, consult your dentist to find other ways to whiten.

Put down that cigarette. Smoking has been shown to discolor your teeth due to the nicotine and smoke.

A great way to whiten your teeth is to use tooth whitening strips. Usually you will use these once or twice a day to both the top and the bottom. Leave it on for the appointed time then take it off. In a few weeks you should be a few shades whiter.

Your best option for a fantastic white smile would be to make a dentist appointment for regular cleanings. Get a cleaning at least twice per year. Be proactive and setup the appointment right after your first one in order not to forget to go later in the year. Have the office call you with a reminder.

If you are looking to whiten your teeth then you may want to consider avoiding some bad habits which can cause tooth discoloration. The three big culprits are coffee, soda, and cigarettes. By avoiding these there things you will make it so much easier to whiten your teeth and keep them that way.

To get better looking teeth through your diet, eat more raw foods. Chewing raw foods can be great for your teeth, and avoiding processed foods means you'll develop less plaque. While raw foods aren't a good way to get quick teeth whitening results, eating them regularly will make your teeth sparkle over time.

You can see that you don't have to settle for a dull smile if you have the know-how to get your teeth as white as they can be. Use the information above to develop a teeth whitening plan that you can live with, and you will be on your way to a permanently brighter smile and whiter teeth.