Teeth-Staining Frequently Asked Questions
Have you ever noticed that after you consume certain beverages, your mouth gets tinted the same colour as your drink? Fortunately, this effect is often temporary though repeated action without proper dental care can lead to permanent discoloration.
To enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile, our dentists at Springvale Dental Clinic have compiled some of the frequently asked questions about teeth discolouration to help you know what factors to be careful with.
Why Aren’t My Teeth White?
Many factors influence the colour of your teeth. Some of these factors include the translucence of your enamel layer and the size of your teeth. Big teeth have more of the dark dentin layer, thus making them look darker. Also the darkness of your dentin and the lighting in the room you are in can affect teeth colour. Also, there is tooth discolouration that occurs after your enamel gets stained by external factors apart from the natural state of your teeth.
What are the Causes of Teeth Staining?
Certain drinks and foods can lead to teeth discolouration, and as mentioned before, teeth staining can be a result of several biological factors such as the translucence of your enamel layer. Teeth stains have many causes- many of which could have been prevented and some of which are beyond control. Drinks such as coffee, wine, tea, and colas could lead to teeth stains. Also, smoking or chewing tobacco, poor dental hygiene, medications such as antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline, advanced age, genetics, trauma, and certain dental materials, especially silver sulfide-containing materials, are known to cause teeth stains.
How can I Prevent Teeth Staining?
One can prevent teeth discolouration by making a few lifestyle changes. For instance, if you are a smoker or a heavy coffee drinker, you can consider quitting or cutting back on consumption. Additionally, you can improve your oral hygiene by flossing once a day, brushing at least twice a day and using a mouthwash daily. Also, visit the dentist to get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months.
What are the Treatment Options for Tooth Stains?
The simplest technique of removing surface teeth stains is with proper cleaning. You can use the recommended brushing practices at home, and for stubborn stains, you can have a professional cleaning by your dentist. Also, if your teeth are stained by surface stains, you can use some bleaching products to brighten the colour of your enamel and eliminate stains. If you want to start with the home options, you can purchase low-level bleaching products in the form of gels, whitening strips, and bleaching pens. Additionally, you can mask the tooth stains with tooth veneers or bonding, both of which involve covering your teeth with dental materials that are bonded directly to the teeth.
Conclusion
Irrespective of the type of teeth stains you have, there are numerous safe treatment options available to help you restore your stained teeth into a beautiful white smile. Also, remember that all of these teeth whitening treatment options can lead to gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. Therefore, it is recommended that you get advice from your dentist if you have any concerns.
