You’ve probably heard the saying “New Year, new me.”

Maybe this year you’re looking for a confidence boost to get that big promotion at work. Or maybe you’re excited about impressing a new date with Valentine’s Day around the corner.

No matter your resolutions, the last thing you want is for stained teeth to cramp your style.

Yellow or discolored teeth can really put a damper on your big plans. You might even avoid social situations, or avoid smiling in public.

There are many common foods we eat every day that can stain your teeth. Luckily, there are also many ways to whiten your teeth — some that are more effective than others.

So which teeth whitening procedure is right for you? And how can you achieve your best smile yet?

Here’s a rundown of some simple ways to brighten your teeth this year.‍

What Foods and Drinks Stain Your Teeth?‍

If you’re a foodie, you might notice that your teeth don’t look so white after eating or drinking certain foods and beverages.

It’s a bit of a bummer that your favorite coffee or tea fix is causing some tooth discoloration. But there are many ways to combat this after you eat!

When sitting down for a meal, take a look at the shade of what you’re eating or drinking. If it could stain a white linen napkin, chances are it could stain your teeth, too.

Red wine, dark sodas, coffee and tea, berry juices, and some sports drinks are all drinks that can stain your teeth.

A quick brushing after drinking these can help keep the stains away. But if you drink these beverages frequently, you’ll notice your teeth will still look less white over time, even with brushing.

The same goes for tomato-based sauces, balsamic vinaigrette, and soy sauce. These foods are also highly acidic, which can also erode tooth enamel down the line.

Tobacco products also wreak havoc on your teeth due to nicotine and dark tar from cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Not to mention the ways tobacco use can impact your overall health!

These foods and drinks are best to be avoided or consumed in moderation. Luckily, you can also reverse the effect that has on your teeth with a multitude of teeth whitening products and procedures.‍

Whitening Strips and Gels‍

If you notice that your teeth look a little dull, you might be tempted to reach for simple at-home solutions to whiten your teeth.

There are variety of popular items on the market, like whitening strips and gels. Some of these products can work quickly, and might only require wearing a sticky strip on your teeth for an hour or so while you get ready for your day.

These over-the-counter products are easy to find in the toothpaste aisle, and are usually more affordable than an in-office procedure. They also produce fast results, sometimes as quickly as7 days.

But some heavily built-up stains on your teeth may need more attention than a few strip scan provide. And the effects of these whitening products can wear off after awhile, requiring you to buy more and more strips and gels.

This can become time-consuming, and may not be as cost-effective in the long term.

Also beware: these may not be the best solution for you if you have sensitive teeth! Some users report feeling tender gums or a light stinging when using.

‍At-Home Light Technology Kits‍

Another popular way to whiten teeth fast is to invest in an at-home kit. Many are designed with a combination of LED lights and whitening gels in trays to breakdown stains on your tooth’s enamel.

Companies like Smile Direct Club will send you a 6-month supply teeth whitening kit. Other kits include instant whitening pens, charcoal toothpaste, and more fun accessories to add to your bathroom sink.

People tend to enjoy these teeth whitening products, and have seen fairly quick results when used correctly. Depending on your teeth, you may notice these kits to be more comfortable for sensitive teeth than some gels and strips.

While these methods can be effective, you may find yourself in a costly long-term membership program to try and maintain your pearly whites.

‍TenBrook ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Treatment

‍If you truly want to wow others with your smile, you’re going to want to come in and see a teeth whitening expert: your dentist down at TenBrook Orthodontics!

You don’t have to wait months to see results, either. Our ZOOM! Whitening treatment takes just under an hour and is painless and safe.

The ZOOM! patented technology uses carbamide peroxide along with powerful light to gently erase tough stains from your teeth. We provide a whitening procedure that is both fast and painless and leaves you feeling better than ever.

While more expensive than your other options, with just one payment, you can enjoy whiter teeth for up to 2 years — without any fading or discoloration.

When you walkout of our office, you’ll experience a difference of up to 9 shades whiter than when you walked in.

Just imagine: In less than one hour, you can experience your whitest teeth yet. You can start this year off better than the last with a bright, shiny smile!

Looking for a way to whiten your teeth fast this year? Come in and see us today!