When it comes to our teeth, we tend to place great significance on the whiteness of our smiles. According to Dr Cathrine Malau, Dentists at the School of Oral Health Sciences at the Wits Oral Health Centre, the desire for a brighter, whiter smile has grown significantly over the last few years.
“Teeth whitening has transitioned from being a luxury for the few to an option accessible to a wider audience,” says Dr Malau. “This change is fuelled by shifts in demographics and the vast range of choices now available for achieving that perfect white smile.”
Unfortunately, as we age, maintaining that pearly glow becomes a bit more challenging due to lifestyle habits and natural discolouration. Luckily, Dr Malau says teeth whitening is now more accessible than ever, with various at-home options, professional treatments, and helpful products designed to keep our smiles sparkling.
Dr Malau provides some top tips on how to whiten your teeth and maintain oral health:
1. The importance of daily oral care
Regular brushing and flossing form the foundation of good oral hygiene. Dr Malau explains, “Whitening products can help enhance your smile, but it’s essential to maintain a consistent oral care routine. Brushing twice a day with a quality toothpaste not only protects against cavities and gum disease, but also reduces surface stains that can dull the brightness of your teeth.”
For instance, Dr Malau says the Aquafresh Complete Care Whitening toothpaste is designed to help you regain your smile’s sparkle. Its unique formula tackles plaque, strengthens enamel, and actively whitens by removing surface stains.
“Incorporating a product like this into your daily oral routine will deliver lasting benefits that can see your teeth shine while strengthening your oral health,” says Dr Malau.
2. Minimise staining beverages
Many of the drinks we consume everyday contribute to teeth discolouration. Coffee, tea, red wine, and cola are among the main culprits.
“Over time, these beverages stain your enamel, causing teeth to lose their natural whiteness. One simple way to reduce this impact is by using a straw when drinking such beverages, limiting the liquid’s contact with your teeth,” advises DR. Malau.
3. The power of whitening toothpaste
When it comes to teeth whitening, DR. Malau says toothpaste plays a key role in removing day-to-day surface stains. Whitening toothpaste uses mild abrasives and special agents to help lift surface stains and brighten your smile without the need for more invasive treatments.
“A whitening formula offers numerous benefits, from protecting against cavities and plaque to freshening your breath and strengthening enamel,” Dr Malau adds. “This makes it an excellent all-round choice for adults looking to maintain both oral health and a brighter smile.”
4. Avoid tobacco for whiter teeth and better health
Tobacco use not only stains teeth but can also lead to serious oral health issues, including gum disease and oral cancer. Dr Malau says studies have shown that eliminating smoking from your routine is one of the most effective ways to maintain a bright smile and ensure long-term dental health.
“Quitting smoking can make a significant difference to your smile and your overall wellbeing,” notes Dr Malau.
5. Consider professional whitening treatments
For those looking for faster results, Dr Malau says professional dental whitening treatments can be an excellent choice. In-office whitening treatments typically involve applying a bleaching agent to the teeth, sometimes enhanced with special lighting to accelerate the process.
However, Dr Malau cautions, “It’s always important to consult your dentist or oral hygienist before starting any whitening treatment, as they can recommend the best option based on your dental health.”
6. Preserving your whitening results
Once you’ve achieved a whiter smile, it’s important to take steps to keep those teeth shining indefinitely. Regular use of a whitening toothpaste can help keep surface stains at bay, while small lifestyle adjustments—like cutting back on staining foods and drinks—can also make a big difference.
“Whitening is just the first step,” says Dr Malau. “Maintaining the results requires a good oral care routine that accounts for all staining factors.”
By incorporating these habits into your routine, combined with the right toothpaste, Dr Malau says this will ensure your teeth remain healthy and sparkling for years to come. “With the right tools and advice, you will always be a brush away from a more confident and whiter smile,” she concludes.
