We often talk about how we remove stains with teeth whitening, but what causes them to form in the first place? In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists talk about how we identify teeth stains, and the common factors behind them. With this information, you can take steps to help your smile stay bright and vibrant!
The Causes of Surfaces Stains
The most common form of discoloration is known as extrinsic, meaning it forms on the surfaces of the teeth. These could be caused by a variety of factors. For example, when we consume foods high in sugar and starch this leaves behind particles for bacteria to break down. In the process, teeth become coated in plaque, making stains more visible (and also increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease). Drinks with dark pigments, such as soda, coffee, red wine, and eta, could also stain them. Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products could cause brown and yellow discoloration, as could lack of proper oral hygiene, another component in the increase of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Intrinsic Discoloration
Another form of discoloration is known as intrinsic, meaning it doesn’t form on the surfaces, but instead underneath the enamel in the dentin. Causes could include injury to the face or jaw, tetracycline exposure at a young age, or fluorosis. While minor ones could be removed with trays and gel, severe staining may need to instead be masked. With dental bonding and porcelain veneers, our team can actually mask them in as little as one to two visits, ensuring you obtain a brighter smile.
Preventive Measures
To help keep your smile bright, cut back on drinks with dark pigments and instead drink more water. Enjoy healthier snack choices too. Instead of chips and candy, enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat yogurt, nuts, and sugar-free gum. Make time to brush your teeth when you wake up and again before bed for two minutes, and also floss thoroughly! Make time to see our team every six months too for a checkup and cleaning, so we can keep an eye on your smile and help remove all plaque and tartar to keep teeth bright and shining. If you have any questions about avoiding discoloration, or if you would like to learn more about our teeth whitening treatments, then contact our team today!
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT COSMETIC DENTISTRY
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we want to ensure you help maintain a smile you can’t wait to show the world! To learn more about obtaining a brighter smile, including teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding, then contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.