Make The Season Bright...by Keeping Your Teeth White!
Marshfield News Herald
Healthy Lifestyle Page – Article
Dental Clinic of Marshfield, S.C. — December 2011
Have your pearly whites lost their brightness because of dingy gray or yellow stains? Stained teeth can occur as we age, but smoking and consuming some foods and drinks can stain teeth. Do-it-yourself remedies, over-the-counter products, and a visit to your dentist can help whiten teeth. It’s also a good idea to avoid substances that stain teeth to help stop further discoloration.
As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel wears away. The underlying layer, called dentin, is yellowish in color. That's why it's important to try to avoid staining teeth in the first place. If you are careful with certain behaviors, and consuming foods and drinks that discolor teeth, the results of tooth whitening may last a year or longer.
There are simple things to remember when trying to keep your smile as white as it can be. Smoking is one of the worst offenders when it comes to staining teeth. Tobacco causes brown stains that penetrate the grooves and pits of tooth enamel. Tobacco stains can be difficult to remove by brushing alone.
Some common beverages can also discolor teeth. Coffee stains teeth, for example. Other top offenders are beverages such as tea, dark sodas, and fruit juices. Stains on your teeth caused by these beverages develop slowly and become more noticeable as we age. Red wine, cranberry juice, and grape juice also stain teeth easily. Rinsing after drinking these beverages is a good practice.
You can also maintain your white teeth and dazzling smile by brushing. Brush at least twice each day, and floss at least once daily. Even better, brush after every meal and snack. Brushing helps prevent stains and yellow teeth, especially at the gum line. Electric and sonic toothbrushes, as well as traditional toothbrushes, can remove plaque and surface stains on your teeth.
You may be able to get rid of superficial stains by yourself. A number of at-home tooth-whitening products -- kits, strips, and toothpastes -- may lighten stains. Tooth-whitening products available on drugstore shelves use mild agents to brighten yellow teeth. Toothpastes use abrasives and chemicals to remove surface stains. For deep stains, you will need a dentist's help. See your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleaning.
This holiday season enjoy all of your favorite foods and beverages, but protect your beautiful white teeth by keeping all of these practical tips in mind. And, if your smile is less than dazzling, call to learn more about the professional whitening services available at the Dental Clinic of Marshfield.
Dr. Paul Bruce is a Dentist at the Dental Clinic of Marshfield. For more information about Zoom! Whitening, your dental health, or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Dental Clinic of Marshfield.
