If your teeth are stained or mottled, you may be wondering what you can do to brighten your smile. Here are a few tips that can help.

Consider Going to a Cosmetic Dentist

Teeth whitening is a great cosmetic treatment because it is a short procedure and you won't have to go under the knife. Going to a cosmetic dentist is arguably the best way to brighten your smile since you can see as much as eight shades difference in only a couple of appointments. Your dentist can apply the bleaching agent to your teeth in a safe manner so that your gums won't become numb or irritated.

Once your teeth are transformed, you'll want to stay up on good brushing and flossing habits. While some people only see their results for months, others can have their results last for years with excellent oral care and touch-ups.

Avoid Staining Foods and Habits

If you want whiter teeth, you should assess what you eat and drink. People who drink coffee, teas, cranberry juice, or wine can be at risk for staining. When you can, try to use a straw or rinse your mouth out with water after drinking these staining beverages. If you often eat sugary confections, berries, curries, or tomato sauces, you could also experience staining. Drinking more water and brushing and flossing regularly can help you achieve a whiter smile.

Consider Your Medications and Habits

Some medications can cause dry mouth, a condition that reduces your saliva flow. Since saliva is important for your mouth to stay clean and your teeth white, consider changing these medications. Some medications actually cause mottled teeth as a side effect, so again, work with your doctor about changing these medications if possible.

Tobacco products are terrible for your oral health and can stain teeth. If you are willing, cut back on these products to maintain a whiter smile. You may want to talk with your dentist about special mouth rinses that reduce tar and nicotine residues.

Try At-Home Remedies

While folk remedies aren't always backed by data, they can be worth a shot. For instance, you may want to try oil pulling, a practice of swishing a little coconut oil in your mouth for about 15 to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. Oil pulling is supposed to clean bacteria off your teeth and make them whiter. 

Talk with your dentist for more information on how you can improve your teeth shades and your oral health. To learn more, visit a website like http://www.lindendentalnaples.com.