Having discolored teeth is a common concern for many dental patients, but few realize just how these issues develop. Whether through cosmetic enhancement or preventive care, patients have options that can address aesthetic imperfections and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Our dedicated team at Westford Dentistry educate our patients about how to prevent teeth staining from damaging your self-confidence. Below are a just some of the habits to avoid so your smile can remain beautiful.
Factors Dulling the Brightness of Your Smile
Over time, teeth become stained in different ways. External stains, or discoloration to the outer surface of the tooth, resulting from tobacco use or regularly consuming darkly pigmented drinks such as wine and coffee. While many assume this issue is only cosmetic, prolonged or repeated use of these products can lead to decay.
Often, staining can occur beneath the enamel due to trauma, overexposure to fluoride as a child, or taking certain medications. Another reason teeth become stained is age. Naturally yellow dentin sits beneath the top layer and starts to show through when enamel thins. Untreated chips or cracks can also cause a tooth to lose its brightness.
Effective Methods for Treating Discoloration
Professional teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic treatment to address external stains. This option provides patients a quick and easy solution, as most bleaching gels are strong enough to improve the color of your teeth by several shades in one visit. Those with minor staining could benefit from some of the over-the-counter ADA-approved products offered at grocery stores and pharmacies.
Teeth whitening may not lift internal stains or those caused by age-related factors, tetracycline stains, or bacteria. Patients with these imperfections can achieve their desired results instead with porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin, durable shells that are affixed to the tooth’s surface, effectively masking the tough-to-remove stains.
Taking a Preventive Approach
Whether you undergo professional cosmetic treatment or not, the color of your teeth can remain appealing with a thorough and consistent oral hygiene routine. Quitting smoking will keep your teeth bright, not to mention the added benefit to your overall health. Additionally, consuming less coffee and tea, or using a straw to drink these will limit your susceptibility to discoloration.
Contact Us in Westford Today
Many factors can impact the appearance and function of your teeth. At Westford Dentistry, our team enjoys educating patients on preventive techniques that maintain good oral health. Call us today to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve those who live or work in Westford, Littleton, and Chelmsford.