Ideas & Trends

On your wedding day, you’ll be smiling so much your face will hurt - smiling for pictures, smiling at each other, smiling at guests. Your smile will be your biggest wedding accessory. So for you nearlyweds who are concerned about your looks on your wedding day (which is virtually every bride and groom I know) - keeping your teeth looking healthy and white is of importance. Follow these simple tips to ensure your pearly whites are just that (white) on your wedding day.

1. Avoid substances that stain your teeth. Black coffee, tea, red wine, cola drinks, dark juices, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar are the worst offenders. Consume these in small quantities, if at all, in the months before your wedding. If you do indulge, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water after eating or drinking to help rid your teeth of any residue. Also, try drinking dark colored beverages with a straw. This will help the liquid to bypass your front teeth.
2. Don’t smoke! In case you haven’t heard the news, smoking is bad for you. Did you know that smokers are three times more likely to lose all of their teeth than non-smokers? Smoking also stains your teeth and it gives horrible breath. Plus, your new husband or wife will enjoy your first kiss at the altar so much more when you have minty-fresh, smoke-free breath. If you’re having trouble quitting, make an appointment with your doctor for help. Or try this nifty way to commit to an online contract that you’ll quit smoking. If you don’t follow through with quitting, you have to pay money. Hey, whatever works, right?
3. Eat more foods that help to whiten your teeth. Foods like apples, broccoli, spinach, celery and strawberries are natural teeth whiteners and they are good for you too! Check out this recipe for an all-natural teeth-whitening remedy.
4. Don’t forget to brush and floss regularly. As obvious as it may sound, it’s worth noting here. While most Americans say they brush regularly, the American Dental Association says that only 12% floss regularly. Just in case you don’ t know the general rule: Brush at least twice each day and floss at least once a day. For maximum whitening results, brush after every meal with whitening toothpaste and floss both in the morning and at night.
5. Make an appointment with your dentist a few months before your wedding. Be sure to ask questions about any "at home whitening products" you plan on trying. Whitening your teeth with bleaching agents has risks associated with it. You may opt to have your teeth whitened by your dentist instead.

Follow these five simple steps and you’re smile will show it on your wedding day. Say cheese!