How To: Use Makeup to Make Your Teeth Look Whiter

According to a recent survey, about 80% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 49 want whiter teeth. So, it’s not surprising that 37 million Americans used tooth whiteners in 2020 alone. While a solid oral hygiene routine and minimizing your intake of dark-colored beverages go a long way, there’s another way to make your teeth look whiter: makeup. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few tips that will help your smile truly shine.

3 Makeup Tips That Will Make Your Teeth Look Whiter

Whether you wear more minimal makeup or love doing full-glam, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Stick to lipsticks with a blue undertone – Orange-y and other warm-toned lipsticks can reflect onto your teeth, making them look yellow and brittle. That’s why it’s best to opt for cool-toned lipsticks that have blue or purple undertones. Darker colors, like a bold blue-red, has the added benefit of adding some dramatic contrast too.
• Use a bit of bronzer – Speaking of contrast, don’t hesitate to use a bit of bronzer to warm up your skin. This small step can make a big difference in making your teeth appear whiter. Just make sure to avoid orange-y bronzers and applying too much.
• Care for your lips – If your lips are cracked and chapped, then it won’t matter how white your teeth are – people won’t be looking at anything else. To prevent that from happening, use a lip exfoliator regularly and wear lip balm daily (ideally one with SPF).

6 Additional Ways to Keep Your Teeth Stain-Free

Of course, makeup can only do so much. To keep your teeth stain-free, it’s important to:

• Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like smoking
• Visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning
• Brush your teeth for a full two minutes each morning and evening
• Floss and rinse daily
• Keep your intake of dark-colored foods to a minimum
• Use a straw to drink coffee, wine, and soda

What to Do If You’re Struggling with Pigmented Dental Discoloration

If you’ve tried all of the above, but your teeth still aren’t looking as white as you’d like, then it’s time to schedule a consultation with your dentist. While many patients turn to over-the-counter whitening products, they are ultimately a waste of your valuable dollars and time since they deliver lackluster results at best. Plus, they don’t take into account important factors, like the condition of your teeth and the cause of your stains, which are incredibly important. The good news is that your dental team can conduct a dental exam, learn about your smile goals, and put together a custom treatment plan to get the results you desire.

A Quick Look at the Two Types of Professional Teeth Whitening

Depending on your dental needs, smile goals, and any time constraints (like an upcoming wedding or job interview), your dentist will recommend either in-office or take-home teeth whitening. While in-office treatments can brighten your teeth significantly in just one appointment, take-home alternatives are designed to gradually remove stains over the course of two weeks. Regardless of which one you choose, you can have peace of mind knowing that the ingredients have been clinically tested and are safe and effective.

If your teeth are slightly discolored and you’re looking for a quick way to make them look brighter, then the above makeup tricks can go a long way. However, if you’re struggling with more significant stains and want to transform your smile, then the best thing to do is schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss your treatment options!