There’s something desirable about having a bright, white smile. After all, your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. But everyday things such as a glass or two of holiday red wine or an everyday cup of coffee can cause tooth staining. However, your dentist in McMinnville knows there are things you can do to protect your teeth from stains and even reverse any discoloration that’s already there.
Anytime we take a sip of a beverage that’s packed with color, the liquid essentially covers teeth in both the ingredients and the color. So a sip of red wine will coat your teeth in the dark red color. However, drinking through straws can help redistribute the staining properties of many beverages. Straws help the liquid bypass teeth so it doesn’t have a chance to stick around, soak in, and cause stains. Investing in reusable straws can help you avoid staining drinks everywhere you go and are environmentally friendly.
Using the wrong toothbrush or toothpaste may not help prevent stains, but they certainly can help in removing them. Choosing the correct toothpaste and toothbrush can help safely and effectively remove surface stains caused by foods and drinks from teeth. Look for a toothpaste and toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This means the product you’re buying has been evaluated and approved for the claims it makes. Ask your dentist in McMinnville about which products are right for you.
Everyone should always brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss once a day to remove bacteria and plaque buildup in order to keep your teeth healthy. But regular brushing and flossing goes beyond oral health itself. Removing buildup can also help keep teeth looking white. Keep in mind that, iIdeally, you should brush your teeth after eating to remove any remnants of foods or drinks that can stain teeth if left around too long. We do understand that there may be times when brushing your teeth after a meal isn’t possible. When that happens, rinse your mouth out with water or chew sugarless gum to help remove leftover food or drink particles.
Besides practicing good oral hygiene habits of brushing and flossing at home, it’s also important to get professional dental cleanings twice a year. These cleanings can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile. These visits are also the perfect time to talk with your dentist in McMinnville about any concerns you may have about the health of your smile or the way it looks so you can work together to find solutions that fit your wants and needs.
Tooth discoloration happens to almost everyone, even if you follow the tips above perfectly. But that doesn’t mean you should have to live with a dull smile that you’re unhappy with. There are many cosmetic dentistry treatments available to fix anything that bothers you including professional smile whitening to veneers. Just know that your ideal smile is possible. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
