When it comes to your pearly whites, prevention trumps cure every time. To keep your grin radiant, it’s wise to avoid stain-causing substances from the start.
Whether you’re fresh from teeth whitening or considering it soon, steering clear of stains can maximise your treatment benefits. Begin by identifying the causes of yellow teeth and various discolourations.
1. Sipping coffee, red wine, and other teeth-staining beverages
Coffee is a notorious teeth-staining offender. Regular consumption without rinsing afterward can cause dark chromogens in coffee to cling to tooth enamel, darkening teeth over time. But coffee alone isn’t the villain – red wine also has staining power, so intersperse sips with water to minimise its impact. Black tea possesses high levels of tannins that may cause even more staining than coffee.
Combating this effect can be as simple as adding milk to your tea or coffee – not only does this lighten the colour, but milk also provides beneficial calcium for dental health!
2. Munching on staining foods
Much like beverages, any food that tinges your fingers is likely to tint your teeth as well. Culprits include vivid berries, beetroot, gummy candies, and dishes rich in colour – think curry sauces, tomato-based concoctions, and soy sauce.
Opt for light and creamy sauces instead to reduce the risk of stains.
3. Guzzling acidic drinks
Although white wine may seem like a stain-free alternative to its red counterpart, reconsider! Acidic wines can weaken tooth enamel and make teeth more susceptible to stains from other consumables. Carbonated sodas and sports beverages can contribute to dental stains too, due in part to their significant acid, sugar, and pigment content. Limit or avoid these drinks altogether for healthier teeth.
4. Neglecting water intake
Meeting your daily water quota not only maintains hydration – it also helps rinse away substances left on teeth and prevents staining. If you live in an area with fluoridated tap water, that fluoride can provide added decay protection.
5. Smoking
In addition to numerous health reasons to quit smoking, tobacco use can seriously stain your teeth whether smoked or chewed. Furthermore, it’s a major risk factor for other oral health issues such as gum disease and oral cancer. The sooner you break the habit, the better your body – and teeth – can recover.
6. Skipping brushing and flossing
Effective oral hygiene helps reduce plaque build-up on tooth surfaces, which often harbours stains. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day for the best results – alongside a healthy, low-sugar diet.
7. Forgoing dental check-ups
Regular dental appointments are another crucial aspect of maintaining excellent oral health. Your dentist can spot early signs of issues and provide tailored guidance for keeping your teeth in top shape.
If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, consult Bayview Dental to learn about possible risks and costs involved in making the best choice for you. For more information, book with Bayview Dental today.
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