Now that you’re at home, and we’re unable to offer preventive and cosmetic treatments, you may start to become concerned about your smile’s appearance. A number of different factors could lead to teeth becoming stained. However, your Livonia, MI, dentist has a few ideas for avoiding serious discoloration, and protecting the health of your smile at the same time.
The Factors Behind Teeth Stains
Over time, several different factors could lead to our teeth becoming dulled and stained. For example, a combination of poor diet and inadequate oral hygiene habits could allow the teeth to become coated in plaque, which not only makes stains more visible, but is also linked to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Using tobacco products, like cigarettes, also discolors teeth as well. When we drink beverages that have dark pigments or tannins, this could stain the teeth too. Understanding the factors behind your discoloration helps you make better decisions for both the health and beauty of your smile!
Steps to Avoid Discoloration
First, try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks, which promote plaque buildup. We also suggest consuming fewer beverages like coffee, red wine, soda, and tea. A glass of water afterward could help rinse away these particles too. To help reduce the severity of plaque buildup, be sure you start each day by brushing your teeth when you wake up and once more before bed, for about two minutes each session. You also need to floss thoroughly before bed as well. Finally, try to avoid all tobacco products, which not only helps smile beauty, but lowers your risk of cancer too. These actions help protect the health and appearance of your smile until you can see our team for treatment!
Whitening Agents to Avoid
You may find a host of home remedies online, like using vinegar, or oil pulling and charcoal toothpaste. However, the results are minor and most people instead encounter stomach aches. Likewise, whitening toothpastes could contain abrasive agents that while able to brighten teeth, could also weaken and erode enamel, causing sensitivity. Whitening strips have also been linked to tooth sensitivity as well. For the meantime, we suggest taking better care of your smile from home and avoiding foods and drinks known to increase the appearance of discoloration. If you have any questions about our cosmetic treatments, or about caring for your smile from home, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PREVENTING DISCOLORATION?
Our team would like to help you avoid serious stains, as well as common oral health problems. For more information on keeping your smile bright and healthy, or to schedule a consultation, call the office of James Stewart, DDS in Livonia, MI, today at (734) 425-4400.