While we’re at home, and our office is open only for emergency dental visits, professional cosmetic treatment is out of reach. However, that doesn’t mean our Garland, TX, patients must contend with serious teeth stains. In fact, we have a few ideas to help you reduce the severity of stains, and improve your oral health in the process!
How Do Teeth Stains Form?
First, you should understand how teeth stains form and grow more severe with time. For example, when we consume beverages with dark pigments and tannins, this could stain the teeth. These drinks include items such as coffee, tea, soda, and red wine. When we eat snacks high in sugar and starch, then bacteria could break down the stray particles, creating plaque buildup that makes discoloration more visible. Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products could make discoloration form, as could not brushing and flossing your teeth each day.
How Do I Avoid Them?
First, take steps to remove food particles from your smile. You should brush when you wake up and again before going to sleep for about two minutes. We also suggest flossing every night before bed. These steps remove the food particles that would otherwise be consumed by bacteria and cause plaque buildup. We suggest avoiding or cutting back on drinks with dark pigments, or following the with a glass of water to help cleanse the smile. Try to eat healthier snacks, like fresh fruits and veggies, in lieu of sugary and starchy items. Quit smoking or using tobacco products. Not only do you keep your teeth bright, but you also lower your risk of periodontitis, tooth loss, and several forms of cancer.
Should I Use Over-The-Counter Solutions?
You may be tempted to try over-the-counter treatments, such as whitening strips or toothpastes. However, strips could cause tooth sensitivity and if used improperly, are often linked to teeth taking on a translucent appearance. Whitening toothpastes contain abrasive agents to wear away discoloration, but could also weaken enamel and make teeth feel sensitive and ache. A quick Google could also show home remedies, like oil pulling and charcoal toothpastes, but these cause more stomachaches than bright smiles. As soon as our doors can open again, we would love to help you enjoy a more attractive smile with professional teeth whitening. Until then, we’re here to answer your questions or provide emergency treatment as needed.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT KEEPING TEETH BRIGHT?
We know how important a beautiful smile is for a person, so we want to make sure you have the information to help you keep your teeth bright. To learn more about avoiding unsightly teeth stains, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.
