Teeth stains, a common dental concern, can result from various factors such as dietary choices, smoking, or natural aging. These unsightly discolorations on the enamel can diminish one’s confidence and overall oral health. Understanding the causes and types of teeth stains is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. With numerous options available, from professional whitening procedures to at-home remedies, individuals can regain a brighter, more radiant smile and improve their oral hygiene.
Teeth – Your most attractive feature?
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry shared the results of a recent study they commissioned where every second person believed that a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone. A smile ranks way higher than what a person says, the way they dress or even smell.
“Having a healthy smile is essential for socializing and building your self-esteem. But let’s take a step back and ask what constitutes a healthy smile? People often associate white teeth and pink gums with a healthy smile, so it goes without saying that if your teeth get stained and/or don’t appear white, your smile may not end up being your most redeeming feature,” says Dr Svapna Koppikar, Director, Professional Oral Care at Colgate-Palmolive, APAC.
Why do teeth turn yellow or brown?
Teeth staining can be attributed to your diet, poor oral care, age and in some cases medication. “Beverages such as tea and coffee can discolour the outer layer (enamel) and sometimes even the inner layer (dentin) of our teeth in the long run. Smoking and chewing tobacco also have a direct correlation to yellow and brown stains on one’s teeth. At other times it can be a simple case of poor oral hygiene where the plaque buildup gives teeth a dull yellowish hue. Additionally with age, our teeth enamel wears down, making our teeth susceptible to staining while in some cases certain medications can have a side effect which causes teeth to stain,” adds Dr Koppikar. Last but not the least, teeth staining may be the result of a genetic disposition.
Good habits that prevent teeth staining
Yes, there are factors not in our control that cause teeth staining, but there are as many that we can pay heed to, to protect our pearly whites. These include:
● Rinsing our mouth after eating and/or drinking staining foods
● Reducing intake of caffeinated drinks and red wine – proven teeth stainers
● Quitting smoking and tobacco chewing
● Brushing our teeth at least twice daily and flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup
● Regular visits to the dentist who can help remove surface stains from our teeth and prevent further discoloration
Effective remedies to remove teeth stains
In the event you catch the early signs of teeth staining, then one way is to switch to a toothpaste with whitening technology. It is important to research the whitening agents and/or technology that is used in the toothpaste you opt for. Dr Koppikar, opines, “Check for toothpastes that use an agent that is enamel safe and is proven to work on the tooth’s surface and also protect the tooth from further discoloration. Your whitening toothpaste should also have an anticavity fluoride base that helps in your daily oral care.”
Smile, it increases your face value
Researchers say a smile shows a person is approachable, friendly, trustworthy. It also conveys contentment, success and is a mood booster for all around. With so many positives, do we need any more reasons to take care of our precious smiles and to safeguard the brightness of our precious teeth?