Tooth stains and discolorations can detract from an otherwise healthy and attractive smile. Common stain-causing culprits include coffee, tea, and red wine. Tomato sauce, curry, and tobacco products can also leave the teeth looking dull and unappealing. Whether you want to prevent this from happening, or you've recently had a cosmetic dentistry treatment to whiten your teeth, you'll find these tips from Dr. Robert Daly of Waugh Chapel Dental in Gambrills, Maryland to be useful.
How do teeth become stained?
Your teeth look and feel smooth, but if you could view them under a microscope, you would see that they have a texture, not unlike a sponge - pits, and craters everywhere! These tiny crevices are the perfect spot for even tinier food particles to become trapped. Over time, enough particles from coffee, tea, tobacco, and other products can accumulate to change the overall color of the tooth from white or ivory to yellow, brown, or gray.
How can I prevent tooth staining?
The best way to keep your teeth bright is to avoid the substances that cause stains. However, for many of our Gambrills dental patients, this isn't a realistic option. So for those who need a cup of coffee or a can of soda to get going in the morning or enjoy dinners made with curry or pasta sauce, Dr. Daly suggests brushing your teeth immediately after finishing. You can also rinse with a glass of water if brushing isn't an option. If possible, you can drink with a straw to bypass the teeth as much as possible. Eating cheese and raw, crunchy fruits and vegetables like celery or apples also help to remineralize your enamel and neutralize acids.
What if my teeth are already stained?
If your coffee habit or your nightly cup of tea have tinted your teeth, your Gambrills dentist has cosmetic procedures that can revitalize your smile. For our patients who have inner stains from trauma or as a side effect of medication, cosmetic dentistry procedures like bonding or veneers can cover up these stubborn problems.
For more information about cosmetic dentistry or preventative treatments, contact Waugh Chapel Dental in Gambrills, Maryland today! We can be reached at (410) 451-9600.