Most people consider a perfectly white smile a desirable trait, though very few people naturally have one. Most teeth are not pure white to begin with; the enamel is a bright blue-white hue, but the dentin beneath, which shows through, is yellow. This is what gives them their ivory appearance.
On top of that, years of eating certain foods that stain can also leave your grin looking worse for wear. Continue reading to learn more about how different ingredients can darken your teeth and how your dentist can help reverse the effects!
How Do Foods Stain My Teeth?
It’s natural to feel frustrated by dental discoloration, and understanding how and why it happens can help you avoid it. You might assume that because your pearly whites are covered in saliva, nothing should be able to stick to them. Unfortunately, the truth is that dark ingredients can cling to plaque that has formed in your mouth and can also be absorbed by microscopic pores in your enamel.
For instance, foods like berries, coffee, tea, and wine all contain tannins, naturally occurring compounds in many plants that give them their bitter flavor. These darkly tinted particles bind with carbs, proteins, sugars, and enzymes in your mouth to tint your teeth.
How Can I Prevent Stains?
One great way to avoid dental discoloration is to avoid the common culprits known to cause it or to minimize your consumption. You might try to stick to a single cup of coffee in the morning instead of sipping on it throughout the day, for example. It can also help to add cream or milk to your cup of joe because it weakens the tannins, making them less impactful.
How Are Dental Stains Treated?
The good news is that you don’t have to live with tinted teeth forever. While it’s not hard to find store-bought products that claim to lighten your grin, these often contain abrasive agents that cause sensitivity. Thankfully, your provider has access to professional-grade gels that are made to minimize any potential discomfort. They can lift your teeth by several shades in a single hour-long appointment for instantaneous results.
If you’re short on time or prefer a more gradual transition, you can ask your dentist about a take-home kit. These typically include the same top-quality whiteners and custom-fitted trays to optimize the outcome. This method allows you to obtain the perfect shade over the course of a couple of weeks, all from the comfort of your home.
Contact your dentist today, and soon, you could have the sparkling smile you’ve always dreamed of!
About the Practice
At White Clay Dental Associates, you benefit from two accomplished dentists who work together to provide a full array of services conveniently under one roof. Dr. Bond and Dr. Ganfield each have years of experience working with patients of all ages, so you and your family can trust that your smiles are in good hands. They take the time to get to know you and your unique concerns so that they can create fully individualized treatment plans to help. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art equipment to help you feel more comfortable while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. You can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or by calling (302) 731-4225.