Teeth that are yellowed, stained, or otherwise discolored can be remedied in a professional teeth whitening procedure at your general dentist’s office. In order to keep your smile bright and white, however, you should be aware of what lifestyle choices are discoloring your teeth. Here is a look at some everyday habits that can stain and discolor teeth.
Drinking Coffee, Tea, or Wine
Substances that are high in acids, tannins, or pigments can stain your teeth. These substances break down the tooth enamel, allowing the tooth underneath to become damaged. Luckily, the damage can be remedied by visiting a general dentist for teeth whitening or veneers. Coffee is acidic and highly pigmented, and can quickly cause teeth to become damaged, stained, and discolored. Tea is even worse, as it contains acid, pigments, and tannins, which all combine to discolor your teeth. Red and white wine are both acidic and full of tannins, but red wine is more likely to stain due to the pigmentation.
Eating or Drinking Highly Pigmented Substances
Once your tooth enamel is damaged, consuming any highly pigmented substances can stain your teeth. Foods that are high in pigment include any food that contains unnatural dyes, as well as berries, tomatoes, cherries, grapes, and pomegranates. Beverages include soft drinks, sports drinks, fruit juices, and lemonade.
Failing to Maintain a Regular Oral Health Routine
Even if you consume foods and beverages that can stain your teeth, you can reduce the damage that is done by maintaining a regular oral health routine. This includes rinsing your mouth out with water after eating or drinking something that is acidic, or that contains tannins or pigments. You should also brush twice a day and visit your dentist every six months.
If your teeth are discolored, you should visit one of our dentists at University Associates in Dentistry for teeth whitening near Chicago . Our professional teeth whitening procedure can whiten your teeth several shades. We can also provide porcelain veneers to repair stained or discolored teeth. To schedule a dental consultation, call us today at (312) 704-5511.
