When it comes to dental care and health, it is better to act for prevention than having to fix an issue after. We all want to keep our teeth as white and bright as possible without restricting and changing our day-to-day too much. If you’re thinking about getting a tooth whitening treatment done, or you’ve had one done in the past, you want to do all you can to get the best results.
To do that you need to know what can cause discolouration on the teeth and ways to prevent it.
Coffee, Red Wine and other teeth-staining drinks
We’ve all heard about the staining qualities of our morning cup of coffee or a night-time glass of red wine. Both contain dark pigments called chromogens that can cause the darkening of teeth over time. These chromogens stick to the enamel surface of your teeth. Black tea is also another common drink that can cause straining due to the high number of staining tannins within.
Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking cuts down the time the staining agents are in contact with your teeth. Using a straw also limits contact the drinks have with your front teeth.
Staining Foods
Similar to beverages, different foods can also affect the colour of your teeth if regularly consumed. Tomato-based sauces, beetroot, brightly coloured berries, lollies, soy sauce and thick curry sauces all can cause potential discolouration on your teeth.
Smoking
Whether its smoked or chewed, tobacco is a major cause of teeth stains. Other than stains to the teeth smoking can cause many oral health problems.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Keeping hydrated not only has benefits for your oral health, but for your internal health, your hair, skin, and nails, it also helps with production of saliva with causes less friction in the mouth. Water also helps wash away any remaining staining substances left behind on the teeth.
Not Brushing and Flossing your Teeth
Stains on the teeth tend to attach to the leftover plaque that forms on the surface of your teeth. Brushing twice a day, along with flossing a least once a day will reduce the amount of plaque build-up, thus, preventing staining.
Not getting regular check ups
We here at About Smiles recommend seeing your dentist for a regular check up every six-months. These check ups allow your dentist to check your teeth and gums for any early signs of problems, including staining, and offer advise on how to keep your teeth healthy and clean.
If you’re looking for more ways to brighten up your smile, have a chat to your dentist about potential whitening options so you can feel your best in your smile.