When we're younger, our teeth are white. A specialist in cosmetic dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, will tell you that over time, age, lifestyle habits, consistently drinking certain beverages, dental hygiene, genetics, and other issues play into our teeth becoming stained. Dr. Cynthia Garner of Garner Family Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, understands the different methods a person can employ to prevent teeth staining.
Causes of Teeth Staining
Staining is a common problem for many people. Some people are predisposed through genetics to have less than white teeth, especially as they age, more than others. Their genetics means that no matter how careful they are with their teeth, the teeth won't remain white without getting their teeth whitened. For everyone else, there are three leading causes of stains on teeth: food, drinks, and tobacco use.
Food: These types of stains typically come from eating dark-colored foods such as berries, coffee beans, and tea leaves which contain natural dye pigments. Eat these foods often enough, and it can't help but start to seep into the top layers of the enamel slowly.
Drinks: Coffee and tea are the main culprits for beverages. Grape juice also makes the list. As the liquid gets darker, the chances of it causing stains increases. Occasionally drinking these beverages won't cause staining but drinking large amounts over a long period will.
Smoking: The tar and other chemicals from cigarettes, vaping, chewing, and cigars come through the item in your mouth. These chemicals and tar mix with the saliva, and it starts to seep into the edges of your enamel.
Methods to Prevent Teeth Staining
There are several ways of preventing your teeth from staining. If you can, avoid the darker foods and drinks that are known to stain. If you love these foods and beverages, then brush and floss each time you finish eating or drinking. You can also try drinking the beverages through a straw where the straw forces the liquid to the side of your mouth or back or tongue. Avoid smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco. Use at-home teeth whitening strips as directed on the box to help remove stains as you begin to notice them. You can also contact a specialist in cosmetic dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, such as those found at Garner Family Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, for help.
When you're seeking cosmetic dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, contact Dr. Garner of Garner Family Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC, at 843-884-6002 today for an appointment!
