Start the New Year with a Whiter, Brighter Smile

A brighter, whiter smile is a confidence booster and a wonderful way to kick off 2025. A healthy smile projects friendliness and makes a good first impression. 

At Greenwich Dentistry in Greenwich, Connecticut, our expert team specializes in gleaming smiles. Here, we offer a handful of strategies to brighten your smile in the new year. 

New Year’s resolutions for a whiter smile 

It’s normal for teeth to become discolored over time, taking on a yellowish or grayish tint because of age, what you eat and drink, or other factors. Here are five ways to change that: 

Brush for two minutes 

Yes, two minutes of teeth brushing can feel like an eternity, but dentists have their reasons. 

First, two minutes means you only spend 30 seconds per mouth quadrant. Second, brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day reduces plaque, which can reduce cavities and gingivitis. Don’t forget to use toothpaste with fluoride and to floss after brushing. 

Reduce sugary foods 

You already know too much sugar isn’t good for you. But you might not realize the harm it can do to your teeth. Sugar promotes bacterial growth, breaking down your tooth’s protective enamel. 

Reduce tooth-staining items 

Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products are common culprits for discoloration. They contain chemicals that can get into the nooks and crannies of your teeth. Coffee, tea, soda, and other consumables also contribute to increased acidity, which breaks down tooth enamel.

Consider teeth whitening treatments

Professional teeth whitening at Greenwich Dentistry can reverse teeth discoloration. As mentioned, the teeth’s protective outer shell breaks down over time. As the enamel weakens, the yellowish, softer material (dentin) underneath shows through. 

Habits like drinking coffee or smoking cigarettes can stain your teeth, stains that brushing alone can’t remove. That’s where whitening treatments can help. 

We typically use a peroxide-based solution combined with laser technology to bleach your teeth and return them to their original glory. Just one session can brighten your teeth up to eight shades.

Schedule regular dental care

A great way to get and maintain a bright smile is by attending regular dental checkups. In addition to dental cleanings, your bi-annual dental visits include oral health checks to ensure you aren’t showing early symptoms of gum disease or forming any cavities. 

What you can expect 

When you visit Greenwich Dentistry, our expert team assesses your oral health, asks about your medical history, and discusses your goals for a whiter smile. We can then make a recommendation that may include whitening treatments. 

To learn more, call our Cos Cob office today to make an appointment.