1. Brush your teeth. A no-brainer right, but everyone is guilty of going to bed or waking up in the morning and forgetting to do it. If this becomes a habit your teeth can take a major beating and will hate you for it. The color fades, cavities invade and you can find yourself paying way more than you should have to get everything fixed. Brushing twice a day and after each meal will help keep your teeth and gums healthy.


2. Get a good toothbrush. Believe it or not, the type of toothbrush you use can make a huge different in how your teeth look and feel. Dentists recommend getting a toothbrush with soft to extra soft bristles with a small head and a long handle. Electric toothbrushes are also high up on the list as they are more effective at removing plaque and keeping your gums clean.


3. Remember to floss. There are thousands of people who neglect to floss on a daily basis and then are flabbergasted when they go to the dentist and find teeth problems. Flossing is the best way to remove plaque in places where your toothbrush won't reach. It can also help prevent gum disease and gingivitis.


4. Try avoiding dark coffee and pop. Drinking coffee and other dark drinks will generally stain your teeth. If you don't see it immediately, then you will notice it over a gradual period of time. If you consume things like cola, coffee, red wine, or other drinks that can stain your teeth then make sure you brush immediately afterwards or at least rinse our mouth out with water.


5. Stop smoking. Not only is smoking extremely bad for your health, it makes your teeth hideous. Smoking leaves sticky tar and brown stains on your teeth and will give you some serious bad breath. Smoking also gives you a much greater risk for gum disease. There's no way around saying it; it's bad for every part of your body so break the habit.


6. Choose a good lipstick. For women, finding the right shade of lipstick can make your teeth appear to be whiter than they actually are. Picking the right color is a simple trick to making your teeth whiter.


7. Chew sugar free gum. This does not and should not replace brushing and flossing; however by chewing sugar free gum you can cut back on the acid levels in your mouth after each meal. If you can't brush and floss after a meal then put in a piece of sugar free gum.


8. Choose a good toothpaste. Most people pick a toothpaste by the way it tastes and not by the ingredients it contains. With so many different brands of toothpaste available to customers it can be a pain finding the right one. Using the right toothpaste however can make a big different in your smile and the health of your teeth. Here are some ingredients to look for in a good toothpaste; fluoride, carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide.


9. See your Dentist regularly. Make sure you make appointments with your dentist at least every six months to keep on top of any problems, but mostly to keep them healthy and strong.

These are just some general and simple tips for whiter, healthier smiles. Your smile is one of the first things other people see when you meet them so take the time and energy to take care of your teeth and your smile.