Have your teeth lost their shine and brightness due to unsightly brown, yellow, or black stains? Tooth discoloration can develop because of age, but some popular foods, drinks, and even mouthwashes can contribute to it. Home remedies can be beneficial for teeth whitening. Reducing consumption of teeth-staining foods and drinks can prevent further discoloration.
Continue reading to learn seven secrets to keeping your teeth whiter and healthier.
1. Dental hygiene
Proper dental hygiene is a key factor in keeping your teeth white and healthy. Make sure to brush your teeth after eating. Brushing is essential to prevent discoloration and plaque accumulation. Consider getting an electric toothbrush. It’s more effective in removing plaque and surface stains than a manual toothbrush. Don’t neglect to floss and use mouthwash every day.
2. DIY teeth whitening
You can try to get rid of staining by yourself. There are lots of at-home teeth whitening products like kits, strips, toothpaste, and mouthwashes that may help whiten your teeth. Also, consider trying home remedies like oil pulling and brushing with baking soda. Over-the-counter whitening products contain peroxide-based bleach that can make your teeth a few shades lighter. Whitening toothpaste contains abrasive polishing agents that can help get rid of surface stains. However, both whitening products and remedies cannot remove deep tooth stains. If you’re experiencing severe discoloration, consult a dental specialist regarding professional teeth whitening procedure.
3. Stop smoking
Smoking is not only bad for your overall health, but it’s also one of the main culprits of tooth discoloration. Tobacco tar causes brown stains that penetrate deep into tooth enamel. These stains are very hard to get rid of by brushing alone. The more you smoke, the deeper the stains become. Smoking also leads to bad breath, gum disease and puts you at risk of experiencing different types of cancer.
4. Avoid teeth-staining drinks
Your favorite drinks can lead to tooth discoloration. Anything that can stain a white cloth can stain teeth. Teeth-staining drinks include coffee, tea, dark soft drinks, and fruit juice. This type of tooth discoloration develops gradually and becomes more evident as you age.
5. Prevent teeth grinding
Grinding your teeth while sleeping can have an immense effect on your dental health. Grinding causes tooth wear, which makes your teeth more exposed to damage. It’s essential to identify the problem in time and follow dentist recommendations like wearing a mouthguard at night to prevent grinding.
6. Teeth-staining medications
Some medications can cause tooth discoloration. Common teeth-staining medications are:
- Sumycin
- Cetylpyridinium chloride-containing mouthwashes
- Medications that contain Iron
- Fluoride excess
- Some neuroleptics, antihistamine medications, and blood pressure medications
Consult your doctor about alternative medications that are appropriate to your situation and don't cause tooth stains.
7. Regular dental checkups
Don’t forget to visit your dentist biannually. Routine checkups are essential to maintain a shiny smile and prevent dangerous diseases. Your dentist can also provide professional teeth cleaning to remove hardened tartar and food residue that cannot be removed by a regular toothbrush.
The bottom line
If you have stains on your teeth, try the aforementioned tips to keep your teeth white and healthy. Make sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly and don’t forget to use a mouthwash to wash out dangerous bacteria and food particles. Quit smoking and reduce your consumption of teeth-staining drinks. Try DIY teeth whitening products and remedies and treat symptoms of teeth grinding. Don’t avoid undergoing routine dental checkups and consulting a dental specialist if you’re experiencing severe discoloration.
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