Most people want a perfectly white Hollywood smile, and visiting the dentist is the easiest way to get it. However, there is a lot you can do between sessions to make sure your smile is appealing. And we’ve developed a list of five simple ideas to help you get more time between dentist sessions.

1. Eat a piece of dark chocolate. Chocolate fans may be astonished to hear that eating their favorite sweet treat can cause their smile to turn red. However, eating dark chocolate on occasion can help keep your teeth whiter. It has a lot of polyphenols, which are natural antibacterial agents. According to studies, dark chocolate may be more effective than fluoride in preventing tooth decay.

2. Stay away from ice. Chewing on ice may make you feel rejuvenated, but if you want your teeth to stay whiter for longer, you should break the habit. Chewing ice cubes weakens the enamel, making your teeth more sensitive and stain-prone. Chewing ice may also compromise existing fillings and veneers, making your smile less desirable.

3. Chew some nuts. Nuts are a tasty, completely nutritious snack that you can always keep on hand to satiate your hunger. They provide several health benefits, and chewing them can help remove plaque and stains, allowing your teeth to remain naturally white. A handful of almonds, Brazil nuts, or cashews can help fight the bacteria that causes tooth decay.

4. Select the correct toothbrush. If you vigorously wash your teeth with a hard bristle toothbrush in the hopes of making them appear whiter, you could be doing serious damage. Brushing too hard breaks down enamel, making your teeth more prone to discolouration. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush, moving it in small circles.

5. Eat dried fruit in moderation. Dried fruit may appear to be a healthier alternative to sweets and candies, but it includes a high concentration of sugar and, due to its sticky nature, can easily adhere to and hurt your teeth. Instead of eating raisins and dried pineapple, opt for fresh, non-acidic fruits that are beneficial for your teeth. Do you have your teeth professionally whitened or do you try home remedies? Do you have any recommendations for keeping your teeth white?